Coppola family (L-R): Alyson, Kevin Jr., Dominic, Gabe and Kevin Sr. Love of soccer runs in the Coppola family “Rigor at Park is far more than ‘making the grade’ or getting great SAT/ACT scores. It is the guided development of lifelong learners and critical thinkers.” What does Park's emphasis on culture and rigor mean to you as an alum, parent, and trustee? What are your favorite examples of culture and rigor in action at Park? Culture at Park is the intentional development of a community built on service, mutual respect, and a celebration of diverse interests. The emphasis of culture at Park encourages each student and staff member to critically analyze their own values and appreciate those who have differing beliefs. Rigor at Park is far more than "making the grade" or getting great SAT/ACT scores. It is the guided development of lifelong learners and critical thinkers. In our current age of increasing AI and technology-assisted learning, Park seeks to encourage individuals to love learning, solve problems, and communicate clearly. Park's emphasis on rigor fosters the skills necessary for students to not only succeed professionally, but to ensure they are passionate about what they do and make meaningful contributions to the community. One afternoon last spring, I arrived at Park to watch our son Kevin’s soccer game. At that same time, the senior class was wrapping up their outdoor BBQ and some lower school students were playing on the playground. When I walked up to the playground, I noticed a group of senior boys playing soccer with my son Dominic and some other fourth graders. The seniors were coaching the younger boys and seemed to be having fun. The fourth graders were working hard, learning, and attempting to emulate the skill of the upperclassmen. When the game ended, the seniors gave some fist bumps and high fives to the younger Parkies, who all had smiles on their faces. There were no parents, teachers, or coaches who helped to facilitate this interaction. I was pleasantly surprised by the camaraderie and community shared across school divisions. 11 Reflections on Culture & Rigor by Kevin Coppola ‘03, Current Parent, Trustee, Coach Kevin is the youngest in the first generation of Coppolas at Park, following cousin J.C. ‘86 and brother Stephen ‘00. After graduating from Park, Kevin earned a dual degree from Hamilton College in World Politics and Classical Studies. He has spent two decades working in the lumber industry at Lenco Supplies and Saginaw Wholesale, and has coached lower school basketball at Park for the past five years. Kevin and his wife Alyson are the proud parents of Kevin Jr. ‘32, Dominic ‘33 and Gabriel ‘36.
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