April 1999

“Cool Parents”.  We’re not talking ‘60’s lingo here. Rather, this is about two parents who saw a need at PDS and came forward to help.

Last fall, PDS celebrated it’s fifth Founders’ Day, for the first time in our new building.  It was an exciting time.  First, three students – kindergartner Ryan Bhangdia, seventh grader Dore Rose Murphy and graduating senior, Dinah Fried -- cut the ribbon at the front door. We dedicated the new gym and recognized the important role that the Michael P. Corrigan golf tournament has played in helping it to become a reality. NAIS President Peter Relic delivered the fifth annual Gilkeson Lecture and we ended the evening with a marvelous fireworks display. All was well – except for the beads of sweat pouring from just about everyone. It was clear that this wonderful space had just about everything – except a climate control system that would allow events such as this to be even more eagerly anticipated.  

Now, air conditioning or climate controls is not a sexy kind of thing for which to fund raise. It’s not part of the academic program. It doesn’t enhance our teachers’ salary budget. In fact, some folks might even see it as a luxury that a September through June operation would use too seldom to justify such an expense.  

Enter PDS parent #1 with a lead gift that would encourage others to join her effort to fund a climate control system. Enter parent #2, willing to approach a family foundation and to make a case for how important their gift would be in helping PDS to complete its move to our new campus. 

On those hot September, May and June days, the building will certainly be more conducive to learning. Events in our new theater will be comfortable and inviting.  And, of course, those of us at this year’s Founders’ Day will be immeasurably grateful!

Both families wish to remain anonymous – but I trust that you will extend our much less anonymous thanks for their vision and willingness to help make PDS a better community for all of us.

Sincerely,

Tony Buccelli