MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Robert Estes, Headmaster Mr. Richard Martino, Chair/Finance Committee FROM: Selwyn Parents and Friends of Selwyn DATE: September 9, 2005 RE: Drama Program, Nature Study Program, and Peru/Panama Expeditions We would like to express our concern that the Drama Program for the Lower and Middle Schools has not been funded for the 2005-2006 school year. We are also concerned that the Nature Study Program and the Peru/Panama Expeditions will cease with the departure of Mr. Morgan Smith. We strongly believe that these programs should continue. Our children love and miss Drama Class. Drama benefits our children by fostering their self-esteem and leading them toward a teamwork environment where a primary goal is stepping outside one\'s own shoes to understand another\'s perspective. Self-awareness and awareness for the greater whole of the student\'s community is of utmost importance to their future ability to \"get along\" with others and to comprehend that there is a much bigger picture to life than just living in \"our own bubble\". The Nature Study Program teaches our children the importance of appreciating and eventually protecting the environment. We understand that Ms. Vivien Tagg is trained and well-prepared to operate the Nature Study Area and the Peru/Panama Expeditions in addition to fulfilling her role as Drama Teacher. We also understand that she has become so proficient in expedition leadership that she is being nominated for membership in The Explorer\'s Club. \"Life-changing\" and \"life-enhancing\" are phrases often used by parents and children to describe the Peru/Panama trips. Selwyn\'s \"sister school\" provides our families with the opportunity to explore native life alongside the local peoples. This is an extremely rare opportunity, and with Mr. Smith leaving, the only way to maintain these tribal contacts is by passing the Peru/Panama trip organization and leadership to Ms. Tagg. She has assisted Mr. Smith on prior trips and has formed these vital relationships with the local peoples. These programs set Selwyn apart from other schools and benefit our children, families and the community immensely. They are a huge part of what we proudly refer to as \"Selwyn - Discover the Difference\". If we allow them to die, we may never have the opportunity to offer them at the same level. We understand the financial difficulties, but are confident that together we can find a way to continue Drama, The Nature Program, and the Peru/Panama Expeditions. We respectfully request a meeting with Mr. Estes, Mr. Martino, and other members of the Finance Committee within ten days. We would like to thank you for all your fine efforts to make Selwyn an outstanding school, and look forward to meeting with you as soon as possible.