in offering more challenging courses for kids,” she continued. “We went into Mrs. Wood’s classroom - she was one of my favorite teachers - and she was talking about how they tend to the garden. She’s got her windows open, a rabbit walking underneath her desk - it had that same vibe, made me miss the school." “My fondest memories first are of the teachers,” she added. “You really get to know them when you’re here, and they watch you go through the whole school to graduation and even beyond.” In reflection, that “memory everywhere I look” became panoramic for Brooke, as she turned from Mrs. Wood’s room to her two daughters sitting outside the theater. “I loved the theater productions, how we got to interact with different grade levels,” she recalled. “And I loved getting into lighting, sound, stage crew, that was really fun. I didn’t want to be onstage, but I wanted to be involved.” As much as Brooke enjoyed extracurriculars, “being involved” meant more than signing up for something, especially as she became an older student. “Being a senior was really fun, especially on Zoo Day,” she beamed. “I grew up looking up to the seniors, so being one was really cool. The school always gave the kids responsibility, which gives you that feeling that they trust you - it matures you a bit, the importance of being involved and a role model for the younger kids.” Park classmates also continue to be an important part of Brooke and Lee's lives. “I have a handful of friends who I went to school with from lower school up to graduation. These friends became my family outside of home - we shared everything together. I've been in a few of their weddings - they're just friends for life,” Brooke commented. Now as parents, Brooke, Lee, and the Park community are passing these values down to Liv, including a love of the outdoors. “One thing I love so much about this school is that I know she’s outside every day,” she said. “We’re big on that - sun, rain, or snow, they go outside. We do that at home too, so it's comforting knowing she gets that experience at school as well.” Ultimately, as in any community, what holds Brooke and her family here is a sense of belonging. “I always felt like I belonged here,” she said. “I love this school, and would love for Liv to have the same experience. I can’t really describe the vibe - it’s a little community. I am so grateful for places like this.” Pictured left: The Zillig family at Park's Centennial Gala in October 2012. Pictured right, from top to bottom: Brooke and the 7/8 girls basketball team in 2006. Lee and members of the 2005 baseball team. Brooke with classmate Katherine Karrer Kudla at Reunion 2015. Lee and Brooke during the 2010 Commencement processional. 30
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