family – FRIDAY BLOG

Why I Give: Investing in a Community That Invests in Children

I chose Saklan because it offers a different kind of education. One that helps students understand subjects deeply and reach their own conclusions. In a world where this generation has information and misinformation at their fingertips, it’s crucial they learn how to think, not what to think—and to show up with the courage to do the right thing.

Saklan is also where my son is seen, not as a test score or a kid to mold, but as himself. Here he’s encouraged to think independently, follow his own developmental timeline, and nurture his genuine love of learning. I don’t take that for granted. I know it isn’t true everywhere.

I give to Saklan my most limited resource: my time. To me, community isn’t an extra; it’s formative. I want my son to see that showing up matters, that relationships shape the places we care about, and that being part of something means taking responsibility for it. You don’t just show up—you help build the places you belong. That looks like reading to a class, organizing a potluck, cheering at CLAS, lending a skill to a project, or helping a new family find their footing. It’s introducing yourself at drop-off, showing up when someone needs a hand, and caring about others’ well-being.

I also give financially to Saklan because I want it to endure. Like many independent schools, Saklan operates with a gap between what tuition covers and what it actually costs to sustain small classes, rich programming, and support the teachers who pour so much into all the kids. Each year, I make a contribution that’s meaningful for our family. I see it as investing in the future of a community that invests in our children.

Join Ani and her family in supporting Saklan’s Annual Giving Fund.

#SaklanGiving #SaklanCommunity

Smiles, Songs, and Spooky Fun

What a fun and festive Halloween day we had at Saklan! From the moment students arrived on campus, excitement was in the air. The morning kicked off with our beloved Costume Parade, a joyful tradition that brought the entire Saklan community together. It was wonderful to see so many smiles, creative costumes, and parents cheering from the sidelines!

While the day was filled with laughter and fun, it was also infused with compassion and connection; two hallmarks of the Saklan spirit.

For our Kindergarteners, first graders, and 8th-grade choir members, the morning brought a visit to Moraga Royale, where they performed Halloween-themed songs for the residents. Their performance was met with warm applause and smiles all around!

Later in the day, our Middle School Student Council hosted a spooky celebration for Preschool through 8th-grade students, complete with Halloween story readings and trips through a haunted house they had designed themselves.

The afternoon concluded with classroom parties featuring food, games, and laughter.

A huge thank you to all our amazing families who helped make the day so memorable. Your time, creativity, and enthusiasm make events like this so special for our students, and remind us all what a strong, joyful community Saklan truly is.

#SaklanConnectedCommunity

Head’s Corner: Loving the Teen You Have by Joining the Resistance

Last week, Saklan co-hosted a conversation with Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart, author of Love the Teen You Have, in partnership with ParentMap—a consortium of schools that brings thoughtful authors and researchers to school communities like ours.

Dr. Lockhart’s message to parents was simple but radical: join the resistance. Resist the urge to fix, control, or over-teach your teens. Resist the pressure to be perfect. Resist the voice that says if you just say it one more time, they’ll finally listen. This conversation was full of gems—here are some of my takeaways.

Meet Them Where They Are and Join the Resistance

When your child resists, don’t fight it—join it. If your teen doesn’t want to talk, don’t push. Maybe text. Maybe just sit quietly beside them. Be attuned to what they need in the moment, not what you need. Joining the resistance isn’t about giving in; it’s about shifting from confrontation to connection. It’s realizing that presence—not persuasion—is what keeps the door open.

Do Less, Be Present

When our kids were little, we tried to make every moment a teachable one—narrating, correcting, guiding. But the older they get, the less that works. Teens don’t need a constant teacher; they need a calm, steady presence. Sometimes love means doing less—being available, not instructional. It can be surprising how zen it can feel just to “be” with them.

Nagging Is Kryptonite

Few things shut a teenager down faster than repetition. Nagging doesn’t motivate; it hardens resistance. Instead of asking the same question again, try curiosity: “I’ve noticed that assignment’s been hard to start—what do you think’s getting in the way?” That one shift invites conversation instead of combat.

Connection Over Correction

Everything comes back to relationships. When we focus less on managing behavior and more on understanding emotion, we help teens develop self-regulation and trust. They don’t need perfect parents—they need present ones.

At Saklan, this message resonates deeply. Our teachers know that learning—academic, social, or emotional—happens in the space between curiosity and connection. And our partnership with parents is strongest when we, too, resist the urge to over-manage and instead choose to be attuned, curious, and grounded.

So this weekend, take a breath, step back, and love the teen you have—right where they are.

You can view the recording of the conversation with Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart here, using the access password: edTalks*2526.

Warmly,
David

#HeadsCorner

Staff Spotlight: Hector

Meet Hector! Blending a mixture of passion, discovery and love for enrichment, Hector not only leads our enrichment program but shows our students how to unlock their potential. Hector really gives our students the opportunity to dream big and have confidence doing so. When he needs to recharge, he finds his peace hidden deep within redwood trees, grounding himself and regaining his power to take what’s next.

How long have you been at Saklan and what’s a fun fact about you that most students wouldn’t know about?

I have been at Saklan for three years now and am excited to be starting my fourth. There are plenty of fun facts about me that most people probably don’t know, but if I had to choose one, I would say it’s that I used to really love dancing. I’m not sure if I was any good, but what I did know was how much I enjoyed being on stage, performing in front of friends, family, and teachers. I was really proud of it. When I was younger, my mom would often put on some music, and from the moment I’d hear it, I would jump right into dancing – completely lost in the rhythm. There are still some memorable songs that bring back those memories and excitement I felt. I don’t dance much anymore, but when I did, I loved salsa, bachata, and even a bit of pop dancing.

What’s something you could talk about or do for hours without getting bored?

One thing people should know about me is this: once you get to know me, oh boy, I cannot stop talking. There are so many things I am passionate about and could go on forever about, such as math, but if I had to pick just one, it would be redwood trees. I absolutely love redwoods. I love looking at them, studying and admiring them, and constantly educating myself more about them. Visiting redwood groves are one of the few things that bring me peace, tranquility, and calmness. It’s my go to place when life gets hectic, and I need to recharge or simply zone out. These trees are tall, massive and ancient, thriving with unique ecosystems. They tell a story of history and walking among trees that have stood undisturbed for centuries is just so fascinating. I could go on forever, but I think that passion really highlights how my love for exploring and early childhood experiences shaped me. The passion I have for redwoods is the same passion I have for STEM, and it’s a big reason why I love doing enrichment. Through enrichment, I feel like I can allow kids the chance to further explore their passions, discover something new, or challenge themselves, all while having fun doing it. I saw the value of enrichment as a child and want to create those same meaningful experiences for the students at Saklan.

What role do you think enrichment classes played in your life, personally or academically?

Looking back, enrichment classes gave me the opportunity to explore passions that regular classes didn’t always leave room for. As a kid, enrichment was where I could try new things, be creative and discover what I truly loved. It gave me the desire to continuously want to learn, even as an adult. Enrichment classes showed me that learning could be joyful, creative and personal. With that being said, enrichment gave me confidence. It sparked curiosity and allowed me to be more creative in my craft, job and problem-solving skills. It showed me that learning doesn’t only happen by textbooks but rather through experiences. It’s why I encourage kids to be passionate and curious in my enrichment classes. I want them to gain confidence through these learning experiences.

What’s a memorable moment you’ve had during an enrichment class?

One memorable moment that stands out happened during one of my coding enrichment classes. We were working on code that turned out to be a little tricky, and several students needed extra help. While I was busy moving around the room trying to assist everyone, a couple of students who really loved coding stepped up in a way I’ll never forget. Instead of waiting for me, they just asked if they could teach their classmates how to write the code. With my hands full, I told them to go ahead. They were so excited to share what they had learned, guiding others step by step. What made it memorable was that they showed real initiative and leadership. They took ownership of the moment, supported their classmates and created this great atmosphere of teamwork and encouragement. Watching them step into that role so confidently reminded me that enrichment is not only about the fun things we do, but also about the growth, collaboration and joy that comes from learning together.

#SaklanWellRounded

Head’s Corner: Playgrounds that Inspire

The Evolution of Play Structures – This Year’s Fund-A-Need

As a child, my memory of play structures at school is pretty vivid. We can start with the color—predominantly metal gray. Much of the parts looked like they were taken from the hardware store plumbing aisle. During the winter, they were cold to the touch; in the heat of summer—untouchable. How many of you have a memory—seared into your bottom—of speeding down the shiny metal slide on a hot July day?

Most of all, though, they lacked space for imagination.

Play structures have undergone a significant transformation over the decades, reflecting our evolving understanding of child development. It wasn’t until the past 20 years or so that play structures moved from being prescriptive in how children were meant to use them to designs open to a child’s imagination—a place where children could direct their own experiences.

Well-designed equipment becomes a canvas for inventive play, changing its purpose to match the day’s adventure. These structures support not just physical development but also cognitive growth, social skills, and emotional resilience—all through the power of self-directed play.

This evolution reflects a broader shift in how we view childhood—moving from seeing children as passive recipients of instruction to recognizing them as active constructors of their own understanding. Today’s most innovative play structures (and educational approaches) reflect a deep respect for children’s capabilities.

Sound familiar? It should; students’ “meaning making” of what they learn is a foundational tenet of authentic Project-Based Learning.

This year’s Fund-a-Need is more than just playground equipment—it’s an investment in the kind of education we believe in. Your contribution will directly impact how our students play, learn, and grow every day at Saklan. When we give our children thoughtfully designed spaces to play, we give them the tools to become the innovative thinkers our world needs through the simple but profound act of play.

Join us in bringing this vision to life! Your support for this year’s Fund-a-Need will help create dynamic play spaces that foster creativity, collaboration, and exploration—just as we do in the classroom. Every contribution, big or small, makes a lasting impact on our students’ daily experiences. Let’s build playgrounds that inspire the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers. Donate today and be a part of shaping the future of play at Saklan!

Alumni Corner: Harrison Leenhouts

Harrison Leenhouts, a member of the Saklan Class of 2019, is currently a sophomore at Colby College, double majoring in Philosophy and Economics with a concentration in financial markets. He shared that he continues to rely on the core values he learned at Saklan—curiosity, courage, and community—principles that have shaped both his academic and personal growth.

At Colby, Harrison balances his studies with athletics as a recruited member of the varsity men’s lacrosse team while also staying active with the club climbing team. His interest in finance has led him to join two student-run investment clubs, where he has gained valuable real-world investing experience. Beyond academics and sports, he enjoys rock climbing, spinning pottery, and teaching himself Dari—a language he has been fascinated by for some time.

Recently, Harrison accepted an offer to join Goldman Sachs’ growth equity team in New York as a summer intern for 2026. This achievement marks the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication, and he is thrilled for the opportunities ahead.

Reflecting on his journey, Harrison credits Saklan with helping him develop the ability to work collaboratively, stay adaptable, and push through challenges—skills that continue to serve him well today. He is grateful for the strong foundation Saklan provided and looks forward to the next chapter in his career.

We are incredibly proud of Harrison and celebrate his accomplishments, knowing he will continue to make a meaningful impact in all he pursues!

Saklan loves staying connected with our alumni and celebrating their journeys! If you or a Saklan alum in your family have an update to share, we’d love to hear it! Keep us posted on your adventures, achievements, and milestones—we’re always proud to see where life takes our graduates!

Staff Spotlight: Lisa

Connected to Saklan way back when it was named Carden School. Lover of the Matterhorn at Disneyland. Excited about innovative math instruction. Served as not only a teacher but also the Saklan PA President and Chair for the Board of Trustees. Can you guess who we are highlighting as this month’s Staff Spotlight? Our third-grade teacher, Lisa Rokas, has worn many hats here at Saklan. Read on to learn more about her decades-long journey at The Saklan School.

How did you first hear about the Saklan School?

I have a long history with Saklan. I grew up in Orinda and attended Miramonte High School. My brother, who is 6 years younger than me, attended Saklan (which was named Carden School at the time). Once I had my driver’s license I used to drive him to and from school. Fast forward to when my son was in kindergarten, I decided to look for alternatives to our local public school and my mom suggested I look at Saklan. My son joined in first grade back in 2004, and my daughter joined the following year in kindergarten. I have been connected to the school ever since.

What about the Saklan community has kept you so invested and engaged in different ways over the years?

I have worn many hats here at Saklan. When my kids were students at Saklan I joined the Parent Association, where I held many roles, including auction chair and PA President. I started on the Board of Trustees as the Parent Association representative and eventually served as Board Chair for a number of years. I made lifelong friends with many of my fellow board members on both the board of trustees and parent association, as well as many strong friendships with Saklan faculty and staff. One memorable moment includes dressing up as pink cotton candy ladies for the end-of-year carnival. When my daughter graduated from Saklan in 2014, I couldn’t imagine saying goodbye to a place where I had been so connected for so many years. I decided to go back to teaching, my first profession before having kids. I started teaching at Saklan in the fall of 2014 and have had the honor of teaching here ever since. Saklan is truly a part of my family and my home away from home.

What has been your favorite project based learning unit in your time here and why?

My favorite project based learning unit each year has been our third grade Saklan/ Bay Miwok Unit where we learn about the local indigenous peoples from the Moraga Valley. Our driving question is “How can we show respect to the people whose ancestral land our school is on?” I especially love this project because each year the third graders have found different ways to answer our driving question in meaningful ways; such as writing a land acknowledgement and creating murals and posters including traditional language and symbols representing Saklan culture. This year students researched indigenous plants we hope to plant on our campus. We have had the opportunity to work closely with Vincent Medina and Louis Trevino, the cofounders of Cafe Ohlone who both have Ohlone heritage and who are focused on sustaining their traditional Ohlone culture. The most important lesson the students learn is that Saklan/Bay Miwok/ Ohlone people are still here and their culture and traditions are still being practiced and celebrated.

We know your love for Disneyland runs deep, what is your favorite season to visit the park and the snack and/or ride you look forward to most?

I do love Disneyland! It is one of my absolute favorite places! I enjoy visiting anytime of the year, but my favorite time to visit is during November or December when the holiday decorations are up. It is so festive! I especially love watching Fantasmic on the Rivers of America and also the fireworks from Main Street! My favorite ride ever since I was kid is still the Matterhorn Bobsleds, and my favorite snacks at Disneyland are definitely their fresh-popped buttery popcorn or churros from the snack carts. Thankfully, I have passed on my love of Disneyland to my kids so that they still enjoy going to the park with me.

Celebrating Lunar New Year

Saklan students celebrated Lunar New Year with some special activities on Wednesday. Lunar New Year, which celebrates the start of the lunisolar Chinese calendar, is celebrated in China, Vietnam, Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore, among other countries.

Preschool students welcomed two guest experts to share about Lunar New Year. Samantha, an Owlet parent, read a book to the class and shared red envelopes with them. Sharon, an Owlet grandparent, shared Lunar New Year traditions that take place in China, told the story of The Great Race, and shared tangerines with the students. The Owlets also enjoyed making snake paper lanterns, Lunar New Year yoga, and listening to traditional Chinese music.

Pre-K students celebrated by welcoming Heidi, a Hoot Owl mom, into their class. Heidi shared that Lunar New Year is based on the Moon instead of the sun and talked about the Chinese word for fortune, 福, and its importance. Heidi shared pictures of her children wearing special Lunar New Year outfits and then treated the class to some bao filled with custard.

Maggie also taught the Hoot Owls about her family’s Lunar New Year traditions, including cleaning their homes and putting up Chinese sayings with good wishes for the new year. The Pre-K students enjoyed watching a video of a lion dance, as well as talking about and receiving red envelopes.

To help with the campus celebrations, the 5th graders put together a dragon which Peta hung on the pergola to welcome students to campus on Wednesday. The fifth graders also made lanterns and dragon drawings.

In humanities class, Christina shared some of her family traditions with the 6th graders, including the tradition of eating tangerines, which are believed to bring good fortune, and of giving red envelopes with money in them as a symbol of good luck. She also shared the proper etiquette for giving and receiving the red envelopes to show respect. The 6th graders also talked about the importance of the Chinese word for fortune and then learned how to write it.

The 6th graders then took their newly acquired skills over to the Hoot Owl classroom, where they taught the Hoot Owls how to write the word for fortune with brushes and ink.