Retiring Faculty
Carolyn Damp Member of the faculty, 1978–2012
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fter teaching in the Concord Public Schools for seven years, Carolyn Damp assumed her destined role teaching Grade 4 in Greenleaf Hall more than 30 years ago. Carolyn was the consummate professional, ably instructing her charges in math, social studies, literature and reading. Many years ago she narrowed her focus, pursuing her passion for the culture of the Middle East. She worked tirelessly to develop a comprehensive and rich curriculum embracing the Mesopotamian and ancient Egyptian civilizations, as well as the modern Middle East. Her focus on experiential learning has introduced bright-eyed 9and 10-year-olds to the mummies of the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, the carpets of Gregorian Rugs, students from the Islamic Academy, Egyptian parades, and, one year, an incredible production of Aida. She has enthralled students with readings from such works as The Arabian Nights and The Breadwinner. Every May, to the dismay of the Milton Fire Department, Carolyn’s room transforms magically into a Middle Eastern bazaar where students practice their haggling skills and share their extensive knowledge of Mid-east countries. Carolyn’s contributions go far beyond her success with the social studies curriculum. She has dutifully served on many School-wide committees; coordinated an Appreciating Differences program in Grade 4; enthusiastically encouraged budding performers at one of the favorite assemblies of the year, the Lower School Talent Show; and always emphasized the interdisciplinary nature of teaching with her beloved colleagues, exemplified most recently by the artists study unit for the Grade 4 summer reading book.
Lida Famili Member of the faculty, 1987–2012
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Although Carolyn’s carbon footprint is small (she commutes to school on her bicycle and replenishes her stylish wardrobe at Swap-It every fall), she leaves an indelible imprint on admiring faculty who have collaborated with her, and grateful parents who have delighted in planning Mid-east luncheons, sharing their expertise as guest speakers, and accompanying their children on rewarding field trips. The long-lasting connections Carolyn has formed with students, in particular, are phenomenal. She has changed their lives forever and they often return to her classroom as Upper School volunteers.
or 25 years at Milton, Lida Famili has embodied John Dewey’s idea: “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” Lida views her role primarily as helping students develop into young adults, and teaching chemistry only secondarily. Lida deeply respects and cares for students; her focus, in combination with her excellent background in chemistry, has made Lida the heart and soul of the science department. As one Class II student said, “Ms. Famili brightened my day every time I saw her. I will miss her daily hugs. I’m blessed to know Ms. Famili.” Lida’s compassion seems boundless. She goes out of her way to help students and adults. Lida would often ask my advice about a student situation. Regardless of what I said, I knew well that ultimately she would do what she thought was in the student’s best interest. Lida has taken many under her wing; for her, that’s part of leading a meaningful and thoughtful life. “Ms. Famili makes me feel as if I were her own child,” one student said. Kindness is Lida’s hallmark, but she also strongly holds certain ideals and is will-
ing to fight for them tenaciously. Lida is unafraid to put a stake in the ground, even if her views are not commonly held. I respect the well-developed sense of right and wrong that guides her life. Lida’s excellence as a teacher has also been an important part of her role at Milton. While she pushes her students to learn chemistry, she also strives to make sure the material is relevant to their lives. Lida wants to make sure that the chemistry students learn will affect their lives in concrete and meaningful ways—including food chemistry, for example, in her curriculum. With great sadness we say goodbye to Lida. We know firsthand, however, that she will shower her love and compassion upon all her family members. If I know Lida, she will teach them some chemistry along the way. Lida, we love you, and we will miss you. We lament the decrease in hugs that will follow your retirement. We have been blessed to be your friends, students and colleagues. Michael Edgar, Science Department Chair
Carolyn, we know that you will return to campus on the tennis and squash courts, where you routinely trounce younger and more athletic foes. As you warmly wish your students well when they leave your classroom after a rewarding and enriching day, we say “ma’a salama” to you, “goodbye” and may peace be with you. Scott Ford, Grade 5 Faculty
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