The Episcopal School of Dallas

Today, campers put the finishing touches on a week of innovation in our STEAM Design Lab Summer Camp.

Throughout the week, students explored concepts in science, technology, engineering, art, and math through hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and creativity. As one of their final challenges, campers worked together to build structures from toothpicks and marshmallows, testing ideas, refining designs, and discovering that some of the best learning happens through experimentation.

This week, our summer campers are strengthening fine motor skills through a variety of hands-on activities that build hand strength, coordination, and the foundational skills needed for handwriting and pencil grip. Led by ESD alum Abby Stanford ’19, the camp features engaging exercises and creative challenges designed for children of all abilities, helping campers develop important skills while having fun along the way.

As the school year came to a close, faculty and staff gathered for Closing Convocation, a longstanding ESD tradition centered on reflection, gratitude, and celebration. Together, we looked back on the 2025–2026 school year, recognized amazing achievements across our community, and honored faculty and staff whose work and dedication continue to make a lasting impact on ESD.

This year, we celebrated several newly endowed positions, made possible through the generosity and vision of ESD families:

Dane Larsen — Eagle Family Visual Arts Department Chair
Tolly Salz and Harry Ruedi — Lamont English Department Chair
Jonathan Chein — Waddell Family Head of Middle School

We also recognized this year’s teaching award recipients:

Zach Allen — Boulware Family Annual Teaching Award
Mariam Fadel — Godwin Family Annual Teaching Award
Elizabeth Bentrup — Thomas Family Annual Teaching Award
Maggie Ferris — Tommy Whitlock Annual Teaching Award

In addition, we celebrated faculty and staff reaching milestone years of service, with honorees ranging from five to 30 years of dedication to ESD. We also recognized retiring faculty and staff members, whose contributions have helped shape our community and whose impact will be felt for years to come.

Congratulations to this year’s honorees, and thank you to all of our faculty and staff for the care, expertise, and commitment you bring to ESD each day!

During the final weeks of the school year, the ESD community had the bittersweet privilege of celebrating two extraordinary educators as they concluded their remarkable careers. After their final classes at ESD, students lined the halls to continue the cherished tradition of “clapping out” retiring faculty members Joe Snyder and Claire Mrozek.

Between them, Joe and Claire dedicated 75 years of service to ESD, leaving an immeasurable mark on generations of students, colleagues, and families. Their classrooms were places of learning, mentorship, laughter, and connection, and their influence can be seen across every corner of our community.

Thank you, Joe and Claire, for your decades of dedication, leadership, and care. Your impact on ESD will be felt for years to come. Congratulations on your well-deserved retirements.

Congratulations to the L26ENDARY Class of 2026!

Today marks the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance, and unforgettable memories. We are so proud of all you’ve accomplished and excited to watch you soar. Once an Eagle, always an Eagle!

The Fourth Grade Closing Service marked a special milestone for the Class of 2034 as they concluded their time in the Lower School and prepared to begin their Middle School chapter. Following the ceremony, students made one final walk through the Lower School, cheered on by peers, teachers past and present, and family members. Congratulations to our rising Middle School Eagles!

What an amazing way to wrap up the school year! Our Lower School Eagles spent the day on Founders’ Field celebrating their annual Field Day with water activities, games, and plenty of joyful play. A special thank you to our parents, faculty, and staff for helping make the day such a success. Wishing our Lower School families a wonderful and restful summer!

Our Primer Eagles welcomed families to campus for Pedacitos de Primer, the culminating event for their year-long garden project. After months of planting, creating, and learning, students hosted their own farmers market featuring handmade goods crafted entirely by Primer. Every item sold was thoughtfully made by the class, making each “little piece” (or “pedacito”) especially meaningful.

Over the final two weeks of school, our Middle School Eagles stepped into the spotlight for their annual talent shows. With everything from comedy routines and puppet performances to vocal numbers and instrumental pieces, each act brought something unique to the stage. Bravo to all who performed and shared their talents with the community!

To celebrate one last hurrah together, our fourth graders transformed the Design Lab into a full cardboard arcade for their kindergarten buddies. Students designed and built their own games, then spent the afternoon playing side by side and soaking in some quality time together.