Dear Friends School Families,

As we wrap up our first trimester and head into the holiday season, we are excited to share updates regarding new hires and internal transitions within our school community. These changes reflect FSW’s growth and commitment to providing a stable, enriching learning environment for our students, and we are incredibly proud of our talented faculty and staff, many of whom are advancing within our school into new roles. Here are the details of our recent additions and transitions:

1st Grade

We are thrilled to welcome Caroline Conolly as the new 1st Grade Lead Teacher beginning January 6th. Caroline joins us with extensive experience in Early Childhood Education, teaching Pre-K through 2nd grade, and a passion for Environmental Education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, a minor in Environmental Studies, and a Master of Arts in Teaching with PreK-6 licensure.

Caroline's engaging presence and dedication to building authentic connections with students shone throughout her interview process. She expressed her deep commitment to the school community, sharing, “Learning is far more than just what happens in the classroom; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. I am honored to be part of a school that values community as much as I do.”

Caroline will begin shadowing Julia Maguire in December to ensure a smooth transition. We’re immensely grateful for Julia’s dedication to her students and love for teaching, which we will celebrate with a special send-off on December 18th.

Middle School Spanish

Patrick Bradshaw, who is currently serving as the Stargazer Blue Preschool Assistant Teacher, will add Middle School Spanish to his role in the afternoons following Anastasia Christopoulos’s departure at the end of November. Patrick, an experienced language educator with a Master’s in Teaching from UNC Chapel Hill, has previously taught German at both the middle and high school levels and has a strong command of the Spanish language. His enthusiasm for languages and dedication to fostering cross-cultural understanding are assets that align perfectly with our Middle School program. Patrick looks forward to sharing his passion for language with our students and supporting their continued growth in Spanish.

Stargazer Extended Day

To support Patrick’s afternoon transition, Mariya Matthews, our current Stepping Stones Preschool Assistant, will take on the role of Extended Day Assistant Teacher. Mariya, a beloved member of our preschool team, is known for her warmth, kindness, and thoughtful spirit. We are grateful for her seamless transition to this new role, where her nurturing presence will continue to benefit our littlest learners.

3rd Grade

With both Janice Clark and Annetta Saggese needing to take personal leave this winter, we are pleased to announce that Chris Mordente will join us as a long-term substitute in 3rd grade. Chris, an experienced Special Education teacher with a background in school leadership, brings warmth, clarity, and a collaborative spirit that aligns beautifully with our school’s values. Chris will begin her transition in mid-November, working alongside Annetta, and will take on full teaching responsibilities starting in December.

During this time, Chris will continue the thematic, project-based learning in language arts and other core curriculum areas. We’re grateful for Chris’s expertise and the thoughtful planning Annetta and Janice have prepared to ensure consistency for our students. We hold them both in the Light and wish them and their families good health as they each navigate their medical journeys.

With Gratitude

Friends, we are excited about the bright future these changes bring to Friends School, and we deeply appreciate our community’s shared commitment to our mission. Thank you for your continued support!

In Peace,

Tony McCudden
Head of School