Courageous Conversations: Resources on Talking to your Kids about Race

Courageous Conversations About Race

A Note From Wellington:

 As we stand together to drive real change at Wellington and beyond, we must also commit to reflect on the ways that we each uphold systems of oppression while taking steps to actively dismantle them. We believe that one of the first places this starts is at home with our families. The resources below have been curated to help facilitate this learning and courageous conversations with your family. 

Read more from our counseling staff

Reflections on Courageous Conversations

 Read on to learn how Wellington students, staffulty, and families are reflecting on the benefits of courageous conversations. 

Read more

Articles, Podcasts, and Tips for Parents and Caregivers:

Talking About Race With the National Museum of African American History & Culture

Anti-Racism for Kids 101: Starting to Talk About Race

Here's How W. Kamau Bell Talks About Race With His Kids

100 Race-Conscious Things You Can Say to Your Child to Advance Racial Justice

Article on Raising Race-Conscious Children

4 Things We Should All Teach Kids About Racism Right Now

Talking Race with Young Children (podcast)


Great Educational Podcasts for Adults on the History of Race in America

Seeing White

1619 

Codeswitch 


Books for Adults:

"So You Want to Talk About Race"

"Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria: And Other Conversations About Race"

"The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America"


Books for Children

The Ultimate 2018 List of Diverse Books For Children

No White Saviors: Kids Books About Black Women in US History 

Children’s Books by Brilliant Black Women: #OwnVoices Authors & Illustrators 

"Whose Toes Are Those?" by Jabari Asim

"Let’s Talk About Race" by Julius Lester

"Lovely" by Jess Hong

"Sugarplum Ballerinas" by Whoopi Goldberg


Studies and Articles:

Three-Month-Olds, but Not Newborns, Prefer Own-Race Faces

Handbook of Race, Racism, and the Developing Child

Developmental Psychopathology: Perspectives on Adjustment, Risk, and Disorder

The Development of Implicit Intergroup Cognition

How Kids Learn Prejudice

Even Babies Discriminate: A Natureshock Excerpt

George Floyd. Ahmaud Arbery. Breonna Taylor. What do we tell our children?

Talking to Kids About Protesting: 5 Things I Want My Kids To Know

How to talk to your children about protests and racism

The purpose of the Wellington Community Equity & Inclusion Panel is to listen and learn - because we believe that every voice matters. Your perspective is vital to continue our journey in building a more equitable and just Wellington.

As a member of this panel, you may be asked to participate in activities - all of which are optional. By engaging with us here, you will be a vital source of feedback which will inform how we move forward and become better. Please understand that participation is optional in all activities we may plan.To ensure confidentiality, data from surveys and the information you share here will only be used in aggregate (i.e., groups of people), and no individuals will be identified.

Join the panel

Video Resources for Courageous Conversations

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Bridgett Allsbrooks
Yoga Instructor
Email
Bridgett Allsbrooks
Yoga Instructor
Fun fact
I became a runner at the end of 2014. Since then I have completed 13 half marathons and ran my 14th in October 2019.
Nicoly Anicio
Beyond the Bell Coordinator
Email
Nicoly Anicio
Beyond the Bell Coordinator
Faith Aubrey
Lower School Reading Specialist
Email
Faith Aubrey
Lower School Reading Specialist
Education
Ohio University - B.A.
Jessica Austin
Middle School STEM Teacher
Email
Jessica Austin
Middle School STEM Teacher
David Backhurst
MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER & 5TH GRADE LEAD ADVISOR
Email
David Backhurst
MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER & 5TH GRADE LEAD ADVISOR
Education
Eastern Michigan University - M.A., DePaul University - B.A., Wayne State University - B.A.
Fun fact
I have traveled to 39 US states and 14 countries outside of the US.
Jenn Bailey
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Little Jags
Email
Jenn Bailey
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Little Jags
J.J. Bain
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
Email
J.J. Bain
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
Education
The Ohio State University - M.A., Cornell University - B.A.
Kimberly Barr
Lower School Lead teacher - Grade 1
Email
Kimberly Barr
Lower School Lead teacher - Grade 1
Education
California State University - B.A.
Neelie Barthenheier
Admissions Coordinator
Email
Neelie Barthenheier
Admissions Coordinator
James Becker
US/MS Band Director
Email
James Becker
US/MS Band Director
Education
Western Michigan University - M.A., University of Northern Colorado - B.M.
Jaime Bennati
UPPER SCHOOL ART TEACHER
Email
Jaime Bennati
UPPER SCHOOL ART TEACHER
Education
Maryland Institute College of Art - M.A, Maryland Institute College of Art - B.A.
Inspired by
Artist Nick Cave. I love how he creates beautiful work and that focuses on identity and social justice.
Emily Berty
DIRECTOR OF COLLEGE COUNSELING
Email
Emily Berty
DIRECTOR OF COLLEGE COUNSELING
Education
The Ohio State University - M.A., University of Dayton - B.A.
Fun fact
I'm almost always training for a race.
Mary Beth Parker
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 1
Email
Mary Beth Parker
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 1
Education
Walden University - M.Ed.
Bryan Brautigam
UPPER SCHOOL BIOLOGY TEACHER
Email
Bryan Brautigam
UPPER SCHOOL BIOLOGY TEACHER
Education
The Ohio State University - M.A., Westmont College - B.S.
Fun fact
I am originally from Anchorage, Alaska.
Shelley Brown
Assistant Head of School for Academics and Head of Early Childhood and Lower School
Email
Shelley Brown
Assistant Head of School for Academics and Head of Early Childhood and Lower School
Education
Miami University - B.S., DePaul University - M.Ed.
Inspired by
My own children. They are the daily reminders of why I do what I do.
Me-Chelle Burkhalter
MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH & SCIENCE TEACHER
Email
Me-Chelle Burkhalter
MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH & SCIENCE TEACHER
Education
The Ohio State University - B.S.
Fun fact
I played varsity softball at Ohio State and I’m a black belt in Tae Kwon Do.
Jackie Butler
Upper School History Teacher
Email
Jackie Butler
Upper School History Teacher
Emma Carson
Orchestra Director
Email
Emma Carson
Orchestra Director
Vanni Castillo
Middle School Spanish Teacher
Email
Vanni Castillo
Middle School Spanish Teacher
Maria Cellino
Upper School Learning Support Staff
Email
Maria Cellino
Upper School Learning Support Staff
Education
Otterbein University - M.A., The Ohio State University - B.A.
Tori Charbonneau
Lower School Lead Teacher - Kindergarten
Email
Tori Charbonneau
Lower School Lead Teacher - Kindergarten
Erica Clark
Early Childhood & Lower School Director of Student Success
Email
Erica Clark
Early Childhood & Lower School Director of Student Success
Education
The Ohio State University - M.A., Wittenberg University - B.A.
How I #ShapeTheWorld
I can shape the world by being a positive and engaged citizen across areas of my life. By being supportive and curious, I can help my community improve.
Courtney Cokes-McKinley
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Pre-K
Email
Courtney Cokes-McKinley
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Pre-K
Education
Ohio University - B.A.
Christine Conkle
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO HEAD OF SCHOOL
Email
Christine Conkle
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO HEAD OF SCHOOL
Education
Franklin University - B.S.
Favorite quote
“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.” -Princess Diana
Erin Cornett
UPPER SCHOOL HISTORY TEACHER
Email
Erin Cornett
UPPER SCHOOL HISTORY TEACHER
Education
Otterbein College - M.Ed., The Ohio State University - B.A.
Marianne Crowley
MIDDLE SCHOOL LANGUAGE ARTS TEACHER
Email
Marianne Crowley
MIDDLE SCHOOL LANGUAGE ARTS TEACHER
Education
Ohio Wesleyan University - B.A., Urbana University - B.A.
Fun fact
I'm a lifelong learner who also loves to garden. I have been a beekeeper for the last nine years.
Anthony Dake
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Little Jags
Email
Anthony Dake
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Little Jags
Dominic Davis
CERTIFIED ATHLETIC TRAINER/ATHLETICS ASSISTANT
Email
Dominic Davis
CERTIFIED ATHLETIC TRAINER/ATHLETICS ASSISTANT
Education
Ohio University - B.F.A., Otterbein College - Sports Medicine
Fun fact
I have a degree in theater and went back to school at the age of 28 to study sports medicine and become a Certified Athletic Trainer.
Greg Davis
MIDDLE SCHOOL LANGUAGE ARTS TEACHER
Email
Greg Davis
MIDDLE SCHOOL LANGUAGE ARTS TEACHER
Education
Haverford College- B.A., The Citadel - M.A.
Fun fact
My wife used to love Pinterest and I got roped into projects she found there. I now have a penny floor in my bathroom and she is banned from Pinterest forever.
Keith DeVoe
DIRECTOR OF FACILITIES
Email
Keith DeVoe
DIRECTOR OF FACILITIES
Catherine (CJ) Dison
UPPER SCHOOL ENGLISH TEACHER
Email
Catherine (CJ) Dison
UPPER SCHOOL ENGLISH TEACHER
Education
The Ohio State University - B.S.
Favorite quote
“There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in our philosophy.” -William Shakespeare
Patricia Dunn
LIBRARIAN
Email
Patricia Dunn
LIBRARIAN
Education
Southern Connecticut State University - M.S., Ohio Dominican College - B.S.
Fun fact
One of my favorite things to do is walk the trails of the Franklin County Metro Parks - even during the winter.
Caleb Dunn
Technology and Special Event Technician
Email
Caleb Dunn
Technology and Special Event Technician
Melanie Eggleton
EXPERIENCE COORDINATOR
Email
Melanie Eggleton
EXPERIENCE COORDINATOR
Education
Otterbein College - MBA, Cedarville University - B.S.
Favorite quote
"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." -Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Joya Elmore
Director of Gardens, Sustainability Consultant
Email
Joya Elmore
Director of Gardens, Sustainability Consultant
Education
Mary Baldwin College - M.Ed., Western Governors University - B.A., James Madison University - B.A.
Favorite quote
“Teach the children. We don't matter so much, but the children do. Show them daisies and the pale hepatica. Teach them the taste of sassafras and wintergreen. The lives of the blue sailors, mallow, sunbursts, the moccasin flowers. And the frisky ones – inkberry, lamb's-quarters, blueberries. And the aromatic ones – rosemary, oregano. Give them peppermint to put in their pockets as they go to school. Give them the fields and the woods and the possibility of the world salvaged from the lords of profit. Stand them in the stream, head them upstream, rejoice as they learn to love this space they live in, its sticks and leaves and then the silent, beautiful blossoms. Attention is the beginning of devotion.” - Mary Oliver
Jacob Ely
Development Coordinator
Email
Jacob Ely
Development Coordinator
Education
Bachelor of Science - BS, Psychology, The Ohio State University
Gary Estep
TRANSPORTATION TECHNICIAN
Email
Gary Estep
TRANSPORTATION TECHNICIAN
Jamie Fencl
Middle School Administrative Assistant
Email
Jamie Fencl
Middle School Administrative Assistant
Emeri Ferguson
Early Childhood & Lower School Literacy Differentiation Specialist and Coach
Email
Emeri Ferguson
Early Childhood & Lower School Literacy Differentiation Specialist and Coach
Education
Ashland University - B.A., Ohio Wesleyan University - B.A.
Lori Feyko
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Kindergarten
Email
Lori Feyko
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Kindergarten
Nicole Ford
Middle School Counselor
Email
Nicole Ford
Middle School Counselor
Erica Foster
Early Childhood & Lower School Math Specialist
Email
Erica Foster
Early Childhood & Lower School Math Specialist
Education
Vanderbilt University - M.Ed., Smith College - B.A.
Fun fact
This year I will be completing my Yoga Teacher Training!
Elissa Francis
Director of Development
Email
Elissa Francis
Director of Development
Louis Frank
Head of Middle School
Email
Louis Frank
Head of Middle School
Education
Boston College M.Edu., Middlebury Bread Loaf School of English MA, University of Pennsylvania BA
J. Aaron Frim
UPPER SCHOOL CHEMISTRY TEACHER
Email
J. Aaron Frim
UPPER SCHOOL CHEMISTRY TEACHER
Education
The Ohio State University - M.S., B.S., B.A.
How I #ShapeTheWorld
Wellington has given me the freedom to develop an educational experience around one of my passions: sustainability.
Jennifer Frim
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY
Email
Jennifer Frim
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY
Education
Columbus State Community College - A.A.S. Computer Applications
Fun fact
I am a curling instructor certified by the United States Curling Association.
William Gage
FRONT DESK COORDINATOR
Email
William Gage
FRONT DESK COORDINATOR
Education
Otterbein University - B.A.
Cristen Geary
Middle School Science Teacher
Email
Cristen Geary
Middle School Science Teacher
Education
Ashland University - M.Ed., The Ohio State University - B.S.
David Glover
Upper School Dean of Students & Director of Theatre Arts
Email
David Glover
Upper School Dean of Students & Director of Theatre Arts
Education
Heidelberg University - B.A.
Danielle Goldfarb
SCHOOL NURSE
Email
Danielle Goldfarb
SCHOOL NURSE
Education
The Ohio State University - B.S., Columbus State Community College - A.S.
Inspired by
As a melanoma survivor, I am a huge advocate for not taking your health for granted, living a healthy and balanced lifestyle, and finding peace within yourself. I am also a mother of two young boys who inspire me every day to be better than I was yesterday.
Michael Graham
MIDDLE SCHOOL HUMANITIES TEACHER
Email
Michael Graham
MIDDLE SCHOOL HUMANITIES TEACHER
Education
Mount Vernon Nazarene University - M.A., The Ohio State University - B.A.
Cindy Hahn
Early Childhood & Lower School Administrative Assistant
Email
Cindy Hahn
Early Childhood & Lower School Administrative Assistant
Patricia Hans
LOWER SCHOOL FRENCH TEACHER
Email
Patricia Hans
LOWER SCHOOL FRENCH TEACHER
Education
New York University - M.A., Concordia University - B.A.
Jessica Hawkins
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Kindergarten
Email
Jessica Hawkins
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Kindergarten
Education
The Ohio State University - B.S.
Kelly Heineike
Director of Business Operations
Email
Kelly Heineike
Director of Business Operations
Education
University of Dayton - MBA
David Herrick
Middle School Physical Education Teacher
Email
David Herrick
Middle School Physical Education Teacher
Education
Bowling Green State University - B.Ed.
Catrina Hiller
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Little Jags
Email
Catrina Hiller
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Little Jags
Benjamin Hirt
UPPER SCHOOL FRENCH TEACHER
Email
Benjamin Hirt
UPPER SCHOOL FRENCH TEACHER
Emelie Inderhees
MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL LATIN TEACHER
Email
Emelie Inderhees
MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL LATIN TEACHER
Education
The Ohio State University - M.A., University of Mary Washington - B.A.
Fun fact
When I studied abroad in undergrad, I volunteered at Torre Argentina Roman Cat Sanctuary which is housed in a Roman temple built in the 2nd century BCE. When I returned to the States, I brought back with me a blind cat named Sottiletta.
Dara Jackson
DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS
Email
Dara Jackson
DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS
Education
Franklin University - M.A., Howard University - B.A. 
Fun fact
I fell in love with biking while on vacation in Amsterdam. After returning home, I started commuting to work on my bike.
Christie Johnson
Middle School Language Arts Teacher
Email
Christie Johnson
Middle School Language Arts Teacher
Education
Ohio Dominican University - M.A., Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania - B.A.
Fun fact
I was a three-sport athlete in college (cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track and field).
Yolanda Johnson
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 3
Email
Yolanda Johnson
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 3
Education
Otterbein University - B.A.
Jordan Johnson
Lower School Learning Guide - Grade 4
Email
Jordan Johnson
Lower School Learning Guide - Grade 4
Michelle Joseph
Middle School Learning Specialist
Email
Michelle Joseph
Middle School Learning Specialist
Education
Ashland University - M.Ed., Kent State University - B.S.
Peter Kaser
Early Childhood Explorers
Email
Peter Kaser
Early Childhood Explorers
Education
Ohio State University - B.S., Columbus State Community College - A.A.
Sue Kay
Middle School Visual Arts Teacher & Middle School Aftercare Coordinator
Email
Sue Kay
Middle School Visual Arts Teacher & Middle School Aftercare Coordinator
Molly Kershner
Upper School Learning Support Staff
Email
Molly Kershner
Upper School Learning Support Staff
Keith Klingler
UPPER SCHOOL PHYSICS TEACHER
Email
Keith Klingler
UPPER SCHOOL PHYSICS TEACHER
Education
University of Notre Dame - M.A., Grinell College - B.S. and B.A.
Fun fact
I have lived in seven different states: Iowa, Indiana, Illinois, Connecticut, New Jersey, Washington, and Ohio.
John Kruzan
DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY
Email
John Kruzan
DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY
Education
Ohio State University - M.S., Miami University - B.S.
Jennifer Landon
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Kindergarten
Email
Jennifer Landon
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Kindergarten
Education
M. Ed.; University of Mary Washington - B.A. 
Favorite quote
"Be Silly, Be Honest, Be Kind." -Ralph Waldo Emerson 
Scott Langford
MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH TEACHER
Email
Scott Langford
MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH TEACHER
Education
University of Queensland - B.S.
Simon Leadston
MIDDLE SCHOOL SCIENCE TEACHER
Email
Simon Leadston
MIDDLE SCHOOL SCIENCE TEACHER
Education
University of Melbourne - M.A., La Trobe University - B.A.
Fun fact
I taught myself how to play the didgeridoo.
Alyson Lee
Upper School Math Teacher
Email
Alyson Lee
Upper School Math Teacher
Emma Lee
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Grade 4
Email
Emma Lee
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Grade 4
Michelle Leininger
Early Childhood & Lower School Learning Specialist
Email
Michelle Leininger
Early Childhood & Lower School Learning Specialist
Katherine Lin
UPPER SCHOOL MATH TEACHER
Email
Katherine Lin
UPPER SCHOOL MATH TEACHER
Education
Ohio State University - M.A., Kenyon College - B.A.
Fun fact
I had a pirate themed wedding.
Stephen Linville
MAINTENANCE COORDINATOR
Email
Stephen Linville
MAINTENANCE COORDINATOR
Victoria Lirio
Upper School History Teacher
Email
Victoria Lirio
Upper School History Teacher
Education
Swarthmore College - B.A., Brown University - M.A.T.
Fun fact
I ran my first full marathon in May and I can't wait to run another!
Alex Loy
Lower School Art Teacher
Email
Alex Loy
Lower School Art Teacher
Katie Lumbley
Assistant Director of Admissions
Email
Katie Lumbley
Assistant Director of Admissions
Sloan Magliery
Middle School Dean of Students
Email
Sloan Magliery
Middle School Dean of Students
Education
Stanford University - M.A., Columbia University - C.E., Kenyon College - B.A.
Favorite quote
"I think young people should not be judged by the level of their reading but by the way a book makes them think and feel. By the way it gives them hope. By the way is opens them up to new perspectives and changes them." -Jacqueline Woodson 
Aly Marchant
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Little Jags
Email
Aly Marchant
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Little Jags
Senna Matt
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Kindergarten
Email
Senna Matt
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Kindergarten
Max McGrath
Lower School Learning Guide - Grade 2
Email
Max McGrath
Lower School Learning Guide - Grade 2
Eliza McLaren
Head of School
Email
Eliza McLaren
Head of School
Education
Barnard College - BA, Teachers College, Columbia University - MA, Klingestein Center, Teachers College, Columbia University - MEd
Jordan McMullin
UPPER SCHOOL ENGLISH TEACHER
Email
Jordan McMullin
UPPER SCHOOL ENGLISH TEACHER
Education
Vassar College - B.A., Miami University - M.A., University of Maryland - MFA
Fun fact
I spent a year as an exchange student in Japan.
Kyle Mercuri
Lower School & Middle School French Teacher
Email
Kyle Mercuri
Lower School & Middle School French Teacher
Renee Mercurio
Middle School French Teacher
Email
Renee Mercurio
Middle School French Teacher
Bill Miller
Early Childhood & Upper School Physical Education Teacher
Email
Bill Miller
Early Childhood & Upper School Physical Education Teacher
Education
Ohio State University - B.S.
Fun fact
I want all students to find joy in physical activity and exercise.
Ivy Mitchell
Assistant Director of College Counseling
Email
Ivy Mitchell
Assistant Director of College Counseling
Education
Murray State University - B.S., M.S.
Dia Mixon
Upper School Spanish Teacher
Email
Dia Mixon
Upper School Spanish Teacher
Education
DePaul University - M.Ed., Bowling Green State University - B.S.
Favorite quote
“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart.” – Nelson Mandela
Kimberly Nally
COLLEGE COUNSELING ASSISTANT
Email
Kimberly Nally
COLLEGE COUNSELING ASSISTANT
Education
The Ohio State University
Trent Neely
UPPER SCHOOL SCIENCE TEACHER
Email
Trent Neely
UPPER SCHOOL SCIENCE TEACHER
Education
Ashland University - M.Ed., B.S.
Favorite quote
“Curiosity is one of the permanent and certain characteristics of a vigorous intellect.” - Samuel Johnson
Justin Newby
Early Childhood & Lower School Counselor
Email
Justin Newby
Early Childhood & Lower School Counselor
Brian O'Masta
Sports Performance Athletics Director
Email
Brian O'Masta
Sports Performance Athletics Director
Debra Parkes
Lower School Special Area Teacher
Email
Debra Parkes
Lower School Special Area Teacher
Education
Otterbein College - M.A.
Laurie Parsons
LOWER SCHOOL MUSIC TEACHER
Email
Laurie Parsons
LOWER SCHOOL MUSIC TEACHER
Education
Otterbein College - M.A., B.A.
Favorite quote
“Music is the universal language…it brings people closer together.” – Ella Fitzgerald
Anisha Patel
BUSINESS OFFICE ASSISTANT
Email
Anisha Patel
BUSINESS OFFICE ASSISTANT
Education
The Ohio State University - B.A.
Amanda Pierce
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Email
Amanda Pierce
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Education
The Ohio State University - B.A.
Fun fact
I have hiked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru.
Carlie Platt
Middle & Upper School Director of Vocal Music
Email
Carlie Platt
Middle & Upper School Director of Vocal Music
Sarah Poe
Lower School Learning Guide - Grade 1
Email
Sarah Poe
Lower School Learning Guide - Grade 1
Brenda Porter
Upper School Administrative Assistant
Email
Brenda Porter
Upper School Administrative Assistant
Education
Columbus State Community College - A.S.
Fun fact
I am retired, a wife, and mother of three, including two Wellington alumni. I am working my dream job!
Jodi Porterfield
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 4
Email
Jodi Porterfield
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 4
Kelly Presson
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 1
Email
Kelly Presson
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 1
Rishikesh Raghunathan
HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
Email
Rishikesh Raghunathan
HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL
Carolyn Rau
Lower School Learning Guide - Grade 3
Email
Carolyn Rau
Lower School Learning Guide - Grade 3
Tara Reed
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 2
Email
Tara Reed
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 2
Education
Otterbein University - M.A., Miami University - B.S.
Inspired by
Forgiveness and second chances. Nothing inspires me to do better than experiencing forgiveness lavished on me and others who are given another opportunity. 
Ellen Rhomberg
Early Childhood Instructional Coach & Literacy Intervention Specialist
Email
Ellen Rhomberg
Early Childhood Instructional Coach & Literacy Intervention Specialist
Christine Robbins
UPPER SCHOOL ENGLISH TEACHER
Email
Christine Robbins
UPPER SCHOOL ENGLISH TEACHER
Education
The Ohio State University - B.S.
Inspired by
My children - my own (Cassie and Lexie) and my Wellington children (my students). ALL of them make me smile and I love them all.
Mark Rodgers
MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH TEACHER
Email
Mark Rodgers
MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH TEACHER
Education
Vanderbilt University - MBA, Valparaiso University - B.S., Wilmington University - M. Ed.
Inspired by
The bravery and wisdom of Martin Luther King, Winston Churchill, and my mother. 
Mike Ropke
Upper School Math Teacher
Email
Mike Ropke
Upper School Math Teacher
Charity Rose
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Pre-K
Email
Charity Rose
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Pre-K
Education
State University of New York at Potsdam - M.S., B.A.
Fun fact
I have studied martial arts, taught swimming and water aerobics, and at one time flipped and caught 50 nickels stacked on my elbow to my hand.
Mason Roulston
Middle School Humanities Teacher & Writing Support Specialist
Email
Mason Roulston
Middle School Humanities Teacher & Writing Support Specialist
Emily Rush
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Little Jags
Email
Emily Rush
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Little Jags
Todd Schweitzer
Maintenance Technician
Email
Todd Schweitzer
Maintenance Technician
Dominic Seals
Middle School Math Teacher
Email
Dominic Seals
Middle School Math Teacher
Christy Seghi
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Little Jags
Email
Christy Seghi
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Little Jags
Sharon Sheridan
Lower SChool Lead Teacher - Grade 3
Email
Sharon Sheridan
Lower SChool Lead Teacher - Grade 3
Education
Virginia Polytechnic University - M.A., Gannon University - B.A.
Favorite quote
"Let your smile change the world but don't let the world change your smile." -Connor Franta
Shannon Smith
UPPER SCHOOL ART TEACHER
Email
Shannon Smith
UPPER SCHOOL ART TEACHER
Education
Temple University - MFA, Occidental College - B.A.
Lindsey Smith
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER AND DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS
Email
Lindsey Smith
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER AND DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS
Education
Capital University - MBA, DePaul University - B.S.
Justine Smith
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 3
Email
Justine Smith
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 3
Education
University of Phoenix - M.A., Slippery Rock University - B.S.
Favorite quote
“Nothing is impossible, the word itself says ‘I'm possible’!” -Audrey Hepburn
Gina Spicer
Early Childhood & Lower School Director of Experiential Learning
Email
Gina Spicer
Early Childhood & Lower School Director of Experiential Learning
Education
University of Cincinnati - M.A., The Ohio State University - B.A.
Nami Stager
LOWER SCHOOL SCIENCE SPECIALIST
Email
Nami Stager
LOWER SCHOOL SCIENCE SPECIALIST
Education
Eastern Kentucky University - M.A., University of Kentucky - B.A.
Favorite quote
"It doesn’t interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for – and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart’s longing. It doesn’t interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool – for love – for your dreams – for the adventure of being alive." -Oriah Mountain Dreamer
Sharla Starker
UPPER SCHOOL LEARNING SPECIALIST
Email
Sharla Starker
UPPER SCHOOL LEARNING SPECIALIST
Education
The Ohio State University - M.Ed., B.A.
Favorite quote
“Play is not a flight from the world; it is inquiry into the challenges and responsibilities of social living.” -Thomas S. Henricks
Debbie Sterrett
Lower School Learning Guide - Grade 1
Email
Debbie Sterrett
Lower School Learning Guide - Grade 1
Brandon Sullivan "Sully"
Director of Innovative Programs
Email
Brandon Sullivan "Sully"
Director of Innovative Programs
Education
The Ohio State University - Ph. D., The Ohio State University- B.S.
Fun fact
I once swam twenty miles over the course of nine hours.
Catie Swendal
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Pre-K
Email
Catie Swendal
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Pre-K
Emily Szabo
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 2
Email
Emily Szabo
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 2
Education
Ashland University - M.A., Denison University - B.A.
Favorite quote
“If you can be one thing, be kind.”
Artie Taylor
ASSISTANT ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
Email
Artie Taylor
ASSISTANT ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
Education
Defiance College - M.A., John Carroll University - B.A.
Tonderai Tomu
Lower School Physical Education Teacher
Email
Tonderai Tomu
Lower School Physical Education Teacher
Kara Trent
UPPER SCHOOL SPANISH TEACHER
Email
Kara Trent
UPPER SCHOOL SPANISH TEACHER
Education
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill - M.A., Indiana University-Purdue University, Fort Wayne - B.A.
Laura Trubilowicz
MS Language Arts Teacher
Email
Laura Trubilowicz
MS Language Arts Teacher
Education
University of Texas - M.Ed., Ohio Northern University - B.A.
Alyson Vigneron
Early Childhood Music and Drama Specialist/Social Emotional Learning Specialist
Email
Alyson Vigneron
Early Childhood Music and Drama Specialist/Social Emotional Learning Specialist
Education
University of Warwick - M.A., Otterbein University - B.A.
Inspired by
I’ve always been inspired by using music to help others understand and explore their own emotions. I’m also very inspired by young people chasing their passions, especially regarding social justice.
Allison Watts
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 3
Email
Allison Watts
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 3
Matthew Webber
MIDDLE SCHOOL STEM TEACHER
Email
Matthew Webber
MIDDLE SCHOOL STEM TEACHER
Education
The Ohio State University - M.S., University of Massachusetts - Amherst - B.A.
How I #ShapeTheWorld
I try to bring my love of math and science and my passion and excitement for those topics with me into the classroom every day. I hope that even if it may not be a student’s favorite subject that they can see the wonder, joy, and knowledge to be learned in these pursuits.
Dianna Webster
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 2
Email
Dianna Webster
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 2
Carrie Williams
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 4
Email
Carrie Williams
Lower School Lead Teacher - Grade 4
Kathy Windish
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Pre-K
Email
Kathy Windish
Early Childhood Learning Guide - Pre-K
Stephen Winslow
MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER
Email
Stephen Winslow
MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER
Education
The Ohio State University - M.A., B.S.
Fun fact
I play guitar at blues jams throughout Columbus.
Vanessa Wolfe
Human Resources Coordinator
Email
Vanessa Wolfe
Human Resources Coordinator
Education
Marshall University Graduate College - M.A., Marshall University- B.A
Favorite quote
"The will to win, the desire to succeed, the urge to reach your full potential... these are the keys that will unlock the door to personal excellence." -Confucius
Becky Woodruff
Teaching Librarian
Email
Becky Woodruff
Teaching Librarian
Kathleen Yant
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Pre-K
Email
Kathleen Yant
Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Pre-K
Education
University of Akron - B.S.
Fun fact
I love the beach and all its wonder.
P. Jayne Young
Middle School Art Teacher
Email
P. Jayne Young
Middle School Art Teacher
Education
The Ohio State University - B.A., Boston University - M.A.
Favorite quote
"Learning never exhausts the mind." -Leonardo da Vinci
Jessica Young
Strategic Communications Coordinator
Email
Jessica Young
Strategic Communications Coordinator
Education
The Ohio State University - B.S., University of Utah - M.A., University of Kansas - M.A.
Eric Zellmer
Maintenance Technician
Email
Eric Zellmer
Maintenance Technician
Tara Zimmer
Upper School Counselor
Email
Tara Zimmer
Upper School Counselor