“( Saybel’ s) warmth, humor, and high expectations have engendered some of the best learning experiences for all in her midst.”
“( Saybel’ s) warmth, humor, and high expectations have engendered some of the best learning experiences for all in her midst.”
the framework. Our youngest students were thrilled to serve as the audience for the big boys’ lessons. Traveling with Mrs. Pipitone to the IBSC conference in New Zealand in 2023 and seeing her present the results of her research project was one of the proudest moments I have had. Her impact as an educator reached far beyond her classroom.
Whether she was playing the Venezuelan“ cuatro”( four-stringed guitar-like instrument) to accompany second grade traditional Christmas carols or drafting the lyrics for the teachers’ annual Upper School Assembly Christmas skit, Mrs. Pipitone always jumped in to help with community events. As another teacher mentioned,“ her thoughtful advice has always provided the perfect guidance, and her ability to bring joy and laughter to our days has made our workplace a wonderful environment. I will deeply miss her infectious spirit and the warmth she brings to everyone around her.” Many others echoed these sentiments.
We will miss the Venezuelan expressions Saybel bandied about,“ Qué Cuchi” and“ Chévere” among the many. And her musical laughter, which would make you giggle when you heard it. We may have to call her up with silly stories just to get our fix.
There have been many tears and celebrations of her career this spring. But it was a Chapel talk Mrs. Pipitone recently gave that says it all. In this talk, Mrs. Pipitone shared that Saint David’ s School was an answer to her prayers 15 years ago. She prayed that she would find a place where she could thrive, be respected, and valued. She knows God answered her prayers in bringing her to us. She may not realize that he also answered ours.
I refuse to say good-bye and can only say, on behalf of all of us“ Que Dios te bendiga. Te queremos mucho. Hasta la vista, amiga.” •
Dr. Gilbert is Chair of Modern Language Curriculum and Research Coordinator at Saint David’ s School.
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