More than 200 attendees gathered at our school’s annual Community Life Breakfast, presented by our parent volunteer group, the Viewpoint School Service Association (VSSA), a cherished tradition that celebrates connection and involvement. Families enjoyed a warm welcome and learned about volunteer opportunities available throughout the year.

Upon arrival at the Woodland Hills Country Club, attendees enjoyed coffee and breakfast while socializing and connecting with one another. From Homecoming and the Book Fair to Luncheons, Parent Education events, Employee Appreciation initiatives, and opportunities to support the Viewpoint Fund, families discovered the many ways they can get involved and make a difference.

Following breakfast, the program featured remarks from VSSA Co-Presidents Carin Maddox-Smith and Mana Partow, Head of School Mark McKee, and Board Chair Andy Keiffer, along with updates from Enrollment Head Laurel Baker Tew, Advancement Head Olivia Powell, and Mandarin Chinese Teacher and Admission Coordinator Ming Hodgson.

“What excites me most about the year ahead is the chance to continue strengthening our bonds as families,” said VSSA Co-President Mana Partow. “I envision events that bring us together not only as parents, but as friends, and moments that remind us of the simple joys of childhood. My hope is to create an environment where our children see us modeling what true community means.”

Her emphasis on community set the stage for Head of School Mark McKee, who connected this year’s theme of Excellence to the shared strength that comes from working together.

“Viewpoint has its core values of love, honor, imagination, optimism, and excellence. I love that we are lifting up one of these values as a theme for the year, a chance to reflect on it and explore our relationship with the concept,” said McKee. “Excellence means something different to everyone, but it is not about being the best or being perfect. It’s about each student striving to do their best, and when everyone is performing at their best, it raises all boats. At its heart, excellence is about community over competition.”

That message resonated with VSSA Co-President Carin Maddox-Smith, who emphasized the importance of modeling excellence in daily life.

“We really try to instill in our household striving to a level of excellence,” Maddox-Smith echoed. “Excellence is the quality of being outstanding or extremely good. Keep in mind, excellence is not perfection, but it’s the pursuit of what you do in order to get there. It’s setting the bar high so that you do achieve excellence.”

With the support of our new and returning parent volunteers, we look forward to an excellent year of connection, growth, and opportunities that prepare our students to be World Ready.