Remembering Our Torreys
Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.
–Voltaire
Every morning I receive a daily quote in my inbox. Some days I quickly move on to the next email; other days I find myself saving one to revisit later, but I printed Voltaire’s quote above to be reminded of the sentiment. It sums up everything I treasure about La Jolla Country Day School—my second home.
Over the past month, we have lost three significant members of the LJCDS community. Thomas Wright ’95 passed away in August after a four and a half year battle with cancer. Thomas was beloved by the faculty, the administration, his peers and their families. As a lifer, many of Thomas’ best friendships were formed in preschool. Because Thomas was a standout Torrey athlete, he also touched the lives of teammates spanning at least six grade levels. The class of 1995 has remained well connected with Thomas and the love they showed for him through his illness drew them even closer.
Devoted English teacher Glen Pritzker P’03 ’06 spent 23 years inspiring and nurturing our students. He was not only a master teacher, but he was also a natural at helping kids discover their talents and find their passions. Glen helped students see their best self and was the first to celebrate their successes. As a parent, he and his wife Sandy modeled unconditional love. Their children, Joely ’03 and George ’06, were class leaders and have remained intricately connected to all of us.
Former trustee and LJCDS parent Barry Rosenbaum P’14 ’17 loved LJCDS and was devoted to helping advance our mission. He was proud to share our accomplishments with others and was quick to send acknowledgments offering praise or words of appreciation. He shared his love of music with our students while team-teaching with the arts department. He could always be found in the stands or on the sidelines to cheer on his children, Katie or John, or any of their friends. His children’s friends were his friends, and they all knew it.
Although each memorial service was unique, there were several common threads. The words, “He loved being a Torrey” were frequently and repeatedly mentioned. These three influential men had found a home at LJCDS and carried their love of this institution with them. Each of them passionately gave their best to the circles they inhabited and the groups to which they belonged. Thomas, Glen and Barry built and maintained relationships that lasted a lifetime. Their endearing smiles and gentle spirits have left a hole in our hearts and within this community.
All three services were filled with loved ones paying their respects to men who had positively impacted their lives. Each service was populated with extraordinary adults and students who have spanned more than 30 years of LJCDS history. Former faculty, administrators, alumni and parents returned as members of our LJCDS family. Even in sorrow, it was apparent how special our community is because of the people who have passed through our doors. One former parent commented, “I feel like I have come home today.” Another added, “I can still see the boys running down the aisles of the amphitheater like it was yesterday.”
Our losses this first month of school have served as a reminder that we have the opportunity each day to celebrate our community, make connections with one another, share a kind word, or help someone see their value and worth. They remind us to appreciate who and what we have in our lives.
La Jolla Country Day School
9490 Genesee Avenue
La Jolla, CA 92037
858-453-3440
© 2024 La Jolla Country Day School
Privacy Policy
COVID-19 Prevention Plan
La Jolla, CA 92037
858-453-3440
© 2024 La Jolla Country Day School
Privacy Policy
COVID-19 Prevention Plan
