Landmark Stories

Friends, Freedom, and a Little Bit of Cookie Magic

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Sam

Friends, Freedom, and a Little Bit of Cookie Magic

Junior Year
Campus Home: Porter House
Hometown: Nagano, Japan

At Landmark, every day is filled with potential for Sam Oka ‘27, who’s all about action—snowboarding in the winter, biking and skateboarding in the warmer months, and hanging out with friends at local North Shore beaches in his free time. Whether it’s racing down mountain trails in the woods behind campus or heading off to chill at Singing or West Beach, there’s never a dull moment. “I don’t have any siblings, so my dorm feels like my family,” he says. On sunny Tuesdays, his dorm has BBQ nights, with Mrs. Winslow, co-houseparent with husband, Carlton, baking cookies that the boys in Porter House look forward to.

But Landmark isn’t just fun—it’s also a place where he’s grown a lot. Coming from a school in Tokyo that didn’t quite fit, he started at Landmark’s Summer Program and never looked back. Now reading at a 12th-grade level, he says school here is more exciting and supportive. He loves being able to talk things through with counselors like Ms. Van Der Werf, who helps him stay grounded and confident. And when he’s not in class, he’s running a car detailing business with his friend, Jovan, saving up for a car of his own. “Living with my friends, getting help when I need it, and building my independence—it’s all here.”

THAT TRACKS

Sam has proven himself to be a strong contributor on Landmark's track team.

GROWING TOGETHER

Sam's on-campus community provides opportunities to hang-out, play, and decompress.

ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

Running an on-campus car detailing business has proven to be a profitable and rewarding venture.

PARENT PERSPECTIVE

“Despite my initial worries, Sam loves living at Landmark. In fact, he says he doesn’t want to come home! As a mother living on the other side of the world, knowing that he feels so happy, secure, and at home means everything to me. It’s been wonderful to see him thrive like this.”

—Mio Oka P’27, Sam’s mom

Article originally published in The Lantern Spring/Summer 2025.

Boarding School for Dyslexia

At Landmark High School, boarding students don't just live here, they have a curriculum designed to help them develop responsibility, executive function, and independence.

Learn More About Boarding at Landmark

Friendship, Sports, and Independence

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Lila

Friendship, Sports, and Independence

Senior Year
Campus Home: Williston House
Hometown: Telluride, CO

Back at home in Telluride, Colorado, Lila was a competitive skier who has learned to love “skiing the east” with Landmark friends. “Off-campus activities and trips bring us all together, and we feel like a family,” she says. Lila stays active and enjoys all of the options that Landmark offers. In her spare time, you’ll find her running, playing soccer, or making TikToks and hanging out with friends. “I didn’t expect to feel so close to everyone so quickly,” she says. “It’s like having a big family—even if we’re not all best friends, we care about each other.”

“I came to the Northeast to tour several schools. The minute I stepped onto Landmark’s campus, I knew this was the place for me. It was beautiful, felt very comfortable and ‘lived in’, and everyone was so warm and welcoming.” After feeling unsupported in her school back home, she’s now thriving—doing well in school, making friends, and building independence. “I do my own laundry, keep my room clean, and am getting more comfortable speaking up for myself,” she shares. She loves hanging out in the Student Center with its cozy spots, pool table, and amazing views. And when things get tough, her houseparents and teachers are always there—whether it’s for help with homework or a midnight stomach ache. “I’m so happy here. I’d 100% recommend it to anyone.”

IN THE CLASSROOM

"Learning in a place where teachers understand me has helped build my confidence."

IN THE SPIRIT

Living and learning at Landmark fosters friendships that last a lifetime.

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Dorm life helps build resilience, flexibility, and independence.

PARENT PERSPECTIVE

“Williston House has been such a supportive environment for Lila. The level system was motivating, she worked hard, and became a proctor in her junior year. Most importantly,
Lila met her people and has made friends for life. I am so proud of her independence and resilience living so far from home. She has truly made the best of her experience at Landmark!”

—Jennifer Kinetz P’26, Lila’s mom

Article originally published in The Lantern Spring/Summer 2025.

Boarding School for Dyslexia

At Landmark High School, boarding students don't just live here, they have a curriculum designed to help them develop responsibility, executive function, and independence.

Learn More About Boarding at Landmark

From Cautious to Confident: Finding Her Place

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Jade

From Cautious to Confident: Finding Her Place

Sophomore Year
Campus Home: Campus Cottage
Hometown: Montclair, NJ

When Jade King ’28 first toured Landmark, it was cold and rainy, and everything felt huge. “I was reluctant about coming here and being so far from home." After attending the Summer Program and getting a feel for the school, she quickly found her place. Now she lives in Campus Cottage, an intimate dorm she loves for its cozy feel, wood floors, and friendly energy. “I thought I’d have tons of free time,” she says, “but I’m always busy—and I like that!” Some of her favorite times are when a bunch of friends pile into someone’s room to talk, commiserate, or just laugh. And she invites friends who are day students to sleep over on the weekend so they can get a taste for dorm life. “My roommate is my best friend. We don’t have many classes together, but we eat meals, play volleyball, and laugh all the time. We’re like sisters.”

She’s also proud of the independence she’s built—keeping her belongings organized and room clean, managing her busy schedule, tackling homework during study hall, and seeking out help when needed are all part of new habits she’s built at Landmark. “During the weekdays after lunch or when my homework is finished, I go to the Student Center with my friends. We watch TV, play Ping Pong, or just hang out.” Jade has bonded with teammates through sports and loves dorm outings to explore the North Shore or have dinner at a local hibachi place. When asked what advice she’d give a student thinking about boarding at Landmark, Jade says, “You’ll find your crew here. The teachers are more than teachers—they really care. I’ve grown so much, and now I have the confidence to take on anything!”

WEEKEND HIBACHI

Dining out and enjoying the beautiful North Shore are just some of the benefits of boarding at Landmark.

FAVORITE SPOT TO HANG OUT

Ping pong, pool, TV, gaming, movie nights, community night, and more, are just some of what's on offer at the Student Center.

WINDING DOWN IN MY DORM

Dorms at Landmark provide the comforts of home while helping students build independence.

PARENT PERSPECTIVE

“Jade has transformed in ways that have been surprising and wonderful. She has become close to the faculty who work in the dorms. When she was home for spring break, she said she was ready to sleep in “her” bed. When I told her she WAS sleeping in her own bed at home, she said she meant in her bed in Campus Cottage! LOL”

— Danielle King P’28, Jade’s mom

Article originally published in The Lantern Spring/Summer 2025.

Boarding School for Dyslexia

At Landmark High School, boarding students don't just live here, they have a curriculum designed to help them develop responsibility, executive function, and independence.

Learn More About Boarding at Landmark

Dorm Life, BBQ Chicken, and Big Dreams

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Samantha

Dorm Life, BBQ Chicken, and Big Dreams

Senior Year
Campus Home: Williston House
Hometown: Atlanta, GA

Before coming to Landmark, Samantha Altman ‘26 had never even gone to overnight camp—but now? “I love having a roommate!” she says. “It’s like having a live-in best friend.” At Landmark, she’s fostered strong friendships and loves how the whole school comes together for spirited and fun events like the Landmark Olympics. “We all compete in silly events like tug-of-war, obstacle courses, water balloon toss—it’s like one big party.” And she likes the food, too, with her favorite meal, BBQ chicken. That’s a vote of confidence from a southern girl! She also appreciates the many choices in the dining room for picky eaters or friends with dietary restrictions.

“When my parents told me we were visiting a boarding school in Massachusetts, I told them there was no way I was going.” Once I arrived, I knew that Landmark could help me improve my reading, and this would open more doors for me.“ I am grateful to go to school with people who learn like I do. We’re not afraid to make mistakes or take chances in class.” Now Samantha feels more confident, independent, and ready for college. “I do my own laundry, take the train to Boston, and even take an occasional Uber with my roommate!” After graduation, Samantha is planning to study architecture and interior design in college. In Landmark’s STEAMworks lab, she uses programs like Fusion360 to design buildings and interior spaces. “Landmark helped me find myself and become so much more self-aware. I know wherever I go next, I’ll be ready.”

WORKING LUNCH

Balancing work with relaxation often blends seamlessly when you live on campus.

SAMANTHA'S SQUAD

"Playing volleyball has been a super fun part of my Landmark experience and a great way to make friends."

IN HER ELEMENT

"I've learned so much about myself since I arrived at Landmark. I am grateful for the opportunity to be here."

PARENT PERSPECTIVE

“Without the Boarding Program, Landmark School would not have been an option for Samantha, coming from Atlanta. In addition to thriving academically, she has matured and grown socially. Samantha has learned how to be a good classmate, housemate, roommate, and friend. While we have missed her dearly, we could not be more proud of the competent young woman she is becoming."

—Karen and Mike Altman P’26, Samantha’s parents

Article originally published in The Lantern Spring/Summer 2025.

Boarding School for Dyslexia

At Landmark High School, boarding students don't just live here, they have a curriculum designed to help them develop responsibility, executive function, and independence.

Learn More About Boarding at Landmark

Lights Up

Sun, 04 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Lights Up

On Daniel Colella ’30

By Jill Flemming

"I always knew that I learned differently. I fit in better academically here, and I’m invested in my learning because the teachers explain concepts to help me learn."
—DANIEL COLELLA ’30

Places. Lights…and Cue Scene!

Onstage steps seventh grader Daniel Colella. Daniel hails from Danvers, Mass., and is the son of John and Michelle Colella. A third-year student at Landmark’s Elementary•Middle School (EMS), Daniel recognizes his opportunities here and embodies the spirit of volunteerism on campus.

“I always knew that I learned differently. I fit in better academically here, and I’m invested in my learning because the teachers explain concepts to help me learn,” he said. He offers encouragement to fellow students: “Speak up and make yourself known in your community. You are worth being seen and heard. Sometimes people will tell you that you can’t do something and tell you to give up, but just keep moving forward.” Daniel feels that having dyslexia is his superpower. “Instead of thinking like other people, I think and see things in my own way. Try your best at everything and go as far as you can with the stuff you love.” Daniel and his parents have been instrumental in supporting Landmark Parents’ Association (LPA) events on the EMS campus. Giving back is in his DNA. This spring, Daniel organized a cereal-box drive in his neighborhood in support of the EMS food drive for Beverly Bootstraps.

Theater is Daniel’s passion. Since age five, when he first stepped onto the stage to portray Prince Charming in Cinderella, he has been singing, dancing, acting, and entertaining audiences. Daniel fosters his love of the theater by attending The New England School of Performing Arts in Reading, Mass. He has entertained audiences in theatrical performances of Descendants, Beauty and the Beast, Alice in Wonderland, Nightmare Before Christmas, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. His dedication to theater has also landed him lead roles as Zeus in Hercules, as well as the dual role of Uncle Henry and the Wizard in the Wizard of Oz. Being on stage is a perfect outlet for him, and he is an active member of the EMS Drama Club. “Theater gives me what I need to express myself and feels right to me.”

Article originally published in The Lantern Spring/Summer 2025.

Practice Makes Perfect

Thu, 01 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Practice Makes Perfect

Beth Dietze, Elementary•Middle School Reading Supervisor

By Meghan Sebens

Down two strikes with MomBall elimination looming, Beth Dietze stepped into the batter’s box and steadied her breath. The pitch came in. She swung. The sharp crack of her bat sliced through the quiet, followed by the umpire’s low exhale, “Oh, wow.” Beth raced toward first, only to be slowed by her base coach. No need for speed when the ball is out of the park. As she rounded third, her teammates waited at home plate, ready to celebrate her first-ever home run.

Consistent. Dependable. Knowledgable.

You might not realize Beth is a power hitter at first glance, and that’s part of her greatness. She’s not always the loudest voice in the room or the flashiest presence, but she’s a force nonetheless. At Landmark Elementary•Middle School (EMS), Beth is the teammate you want at the plate when the pressure’s on. She’s consistent, dependable, and deeply knowledgeable—always initiating, supporting, and following through.

Doing the Work

That home run wasn’t luck. After five years of playing summer league softball and MomBall, Beth finally admitted out loud that she wanted to “hit one out.” With the intention set, she developed a plan. Early morning workouts, batting practice, and a competitive drive set the path for the rest of the year ahead. Beth didn’t chase glory; she built it, rep by rep, swing by swing.

Making an Impact

She brings that same deliberate intensity to her role as reading supervisor. Beth stays current with research, devises targeted and actionable trainings, and helps tutors translate these insights into impact. She studies student strengths, collaborates with teachers, and shapes meaningful pathways to growth. Her work is never just handed off—she coaches, observes, and gives time for practice. In her training room, teachers and students alike build their reading muscles, one rep at a time.

Beth backs her work at EMS with structure, strategy, and sweat. Whether on the field or in the classroom, she’s the kind of teammate who helps you hit it out of the park.

Article originally published in The Lantern Spring/Summer 2025.

Building Connections

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Building Connections

by Bernie Romanowski

Landmark Trustee, Brian Stein P’26

When I arrived at Brian Stein’s office on a sunny June morning, the space was lively and full of energy — and three friendly dogs who clearly felt at home amid the bustle. The office belongs to Vance Stein Architecture & Interiors, the firm Brian co-founded with his business partner, Chris Vance. Officially established in 2024, the firm’s origins trace back to 2018, when Brian and Chris began collaborating and eventually co-located their independent practices, merging their visions into a shared creative endeavor.

Brian at Work

Brian’s professional influence extends well beyond his home base. His architectural portfolio spans New England, Florida, Ohio, and Alabama, reflecting a thoughtful and regionally responsive design philosophy. Alongside his design work, Brian remains deeply involved in civic life in his hometown of Hamilton, Mass. He was a founding member of the Hamilton Development Corporation—serving as its president for seven years—and has also served on the town’s Planning Board and Affordable Housing Trust.

Raising Triplets

At home, Brian and his wife, Stephanie, are the proud parents of triplets, born in 2008. Their daughter Julia began attending Landmark in third grade and is now a junior, actively touring colleges in preparation for graduation in 2026. Julia’s sisters are equally engaged in their individual paths, attending Essex North Shore Technical School and Hamilton-Wenham Regional High School. While managing three teens in three different schools certainly keeps the household busy, Brian takes great pride in seeing each of his daughters thrive in environments that nurture their distinct interests.

Giving Back for a Deeper Commitment to Landmark

Shortly after Julia enrolled at Landmark, she told her parents that the school’s playground could use a set of monkey bars. Brian took the suggestion to heart. He and a small group of parents partnered with the administration and quickly raised the funds needed to make it happen. This organic, community-driven effort gave Brian a sense of connection and purpose, showing him how valued parent involvement could be—and it marked the beginning of a deeper partnership with Landmark. When I ask what inspired Brian to ultimately join the Board of Trustees, his answer is simple: “It just makes sense. I love the school and felt this was a great way to give back.”

Brian became a trustee at a pivotal moment, as Landmark was preparing for major expansions on both the Elementary•Middle School and High School campuses. His leadership on the Facilities Committee played a key role not only in the planning and successful completion of those projects but also in laying a strong foundation for future campus improvements.

Article originally published in The Lantern Spring/Summer 2025.

A Star is Born

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0000

A Star is Born

Landmark Alum, Jack Bram ’23

By Nate Efinger

"Landmark offered me the skills to start rebuilding the self-confidence I had lost and this gave me the sense that I could do the work. This was very powerful."
—Jack Bram '23

If you were a part of the Landmark community from 2016–2023, you heard the name Jack Bram. Quiet whispers of a superstar on campus turned to roars by his senior year. Starting at the Elementary•Middle School, Jack’s confidence slowly began to blossom. By his senior year, he was wowing audiences on guitar, drums, acting, singing, and even puppeteering! Now, at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Jack has become a gifted, sought-after guitarist and bassist. I got a chance to catch up with Jack recently and talk with him about his transition to college life.

What have you been doing since graduating from Landmark in 2023?

Jack: I have been studying music at Berklee, pursuing a double major in Performance and Contemporary Writing and Production. The Performance major helps students master their instrument. Contemporary Writing and Production teaches us how to thrive in a variety of musical contexts, such as being a composer, arranger, or producer. At Berklee, I’ve had the chance to perform with numerous bands and artists inside and outside of school.

Are there opportunities to perform at Berklee as well as find time to do things on your own?

Jack: We have classes with performances for credit, and the school puts on a variety of Berklee-based productions each semester. Last year, I got to be one of the electric guitarists in two signature series shows. We were presented with about two hours of music to learn, in two months with four-hour rehearsals. Participating in these shows gave me a lot of great experience.

Wow! How did you manage learning two hours of music in just two months?

Jack: Time management was an indispensable skill I learned at Landmark and has been invaluable in college. It’s one thing to learn two hours of music, but throw in classes, homework, other responsibilities, other bands, and rehearsals—and it’s a whole lot of time management.

Tell me more about when you first came to Landmark.

Jack: In late elementary school I was struggling. There was a whole set of skills that I was lacking, but never explicitly taught. I questioned my intelligence and this soon trickled into my mental health and social aspects of my life. This took me to a negative place that wasn’t sustainable. Landmark offered me the skills to start rebuilding the self-confidence I had lost and this gave me the sense that I could do the work. This was very powerful. Eventually, I got back to feeling I could navigate academically, socially, and in life.

Tell me about your fondest Landmark memory.

Jack: That’s a tough question. A highlight was being in the band at the High School. Being with that group of student musicians taught us all how to collaborate and apply the skills we were all learning outside of the band that we could apply to the rehearsal space.

How is creative collaboration at Berklee different from at Landmark?

Jack: There are some similarities, but collaborating with people who are as passionate about music as you are but may have a completely different vision, can be tricky. There can be some tense moments, but that’s just the nature of a creative pursuit.

You shifted from being a day student for your first three years at the high school to boarding as a senior. How was this adjustment?

Jack: I’m an introverted person by nature. Boarding was a great way to get out of my shell, which prepared me for the social dynamics of college.

What’s next for you, Jack?

Jack: I want to work as a professional musician, using the skills that I learned at school to make a living for myself. This could be production, arranging, performing, and eventually creating original music and working in bands for all kinds of projects. I’ve been lucky to find friends at Berklee with a similar vision—musically and in life. I would love to pursue this vision with them and create music and tour.

Catching up with Jack between gigs with his band in North Carolina for the summer was fantastic. He’s clearly living his best life. His story is just one of the countless stories of Landmark alumni successes. I feel honored to have worked with him when he was one of my students and privileged to check in with him regularly. Jack was a “once in a career” music student and an incredible human being. Jack, we can’t wait to see what the world has in store for you!

Article originally published in The Lantern Spring/Summer 2025.