The Portledge Lower School held a holiday party for parents to bring the community together. At Portledge, holidays are seen as educational opportunities that allow everyone a chance to learn about our diverse population. As part of the school’s emphasis on family identity and respect, the teachers encourage the children to talk about their family traditions with classmates. In his opening remarks Lower School Division Head, Alan D. Cohen, said “the holiday season is a time to celebrate with friends and give thanks” and that’s exactly what was done at this festive party.   

The focal point of the night was the work of Elizabeth Jordan, world-renowned photographer and Portledge parent. Elizabeth aims to facilitate social change through photography, and her gift to the community was to photograph each student in the Lower School. The 11x13-inch black and white photographs were on display at the holiday party for everyone to view and enjoy. Her eloquent words brought tears to the parents as she expressed her genuine commitment to the school and the community and highlighted the school’s nurturing environment.  Elizabeth’s work has been featured inThe New York Times, Vogue, Tattler Asia,andDigital Photo Pro. Her projects document and evoke social change in Russia, Burma, Bosnia, Rwanda, Ghana, and Haiti. She was awarded Donna Karan’s Women Who Inspire Award in 2010. 

A good time was had by all, and Portledge pride shined through as parents mingled with teachers throughout the night,