OUR CAMPUS NEEDS US
Let’s Do the Trim
ABOUT THE CAMPAIGN
Our children learn to care for their world. Now let’s care for theirs.
At Cornerstone, children learn that caring for their environment is part of caring for their community. They water the plants, polish the tables, and return every material to its place. Every day, they learn that small acts of care make a lasting difference.
For more than 40 years, our 11-acre campus has been the backdrop for that learning. From our classrooms and silos to the gym, nature paths, and play spaces, these are the places where childhood unfolds, confidence grows, and lifelong memories are made. But time has taken its toll, and our campus needs our attention. Now, it is our turn to care for the place that has given so much to generations of children.
Do the Trim is an ambitious, community-wide campaign to restore and renew our campus, one meaningful, visible project at a time. Our goal is to raise $250,000 to address the needs of our buildings and grounds, preserving these special spaces for the children who learn here today and the generations who will follow.
Every gift will make a tangible difference. Every project will be something our community can see, touch, and take pride in.
For more than 40 years, Cornerstone has nurtured our children. Now, it's our turn to nurture Cornerstone.
BEFORE
AFTER
Jill South Catino, “Meema”
1940 - 2026
HOW IT BEGAN
Sometimes, the most extraordinary things begin with one person’s belief in what’s possible. Laurie demonstrated her commitment to Cornerstone with a generous $10,000 gift to Do the Trim, made in loving memory of her mom, Jill Catino, “Meema,” honoring her legacy of care, craftsmanship, and love for bringing special places back to life. When Laurie shared her vision with her brother, he was so inspired that he offered to match her gift. Then, when Laurie shared the story with a current Cornerstone parent, they, too, stepped forward to match it. One act of generosity sparked another, creating a ripple effect of giving that embodies the very best of our community.
That spirit of commitment extends throughout Cornerstone’s leadership, with 100% of our current Board of Directors having contributed to the Do the Trim Fund. Their generosity reflects a shared belief in the importance of preserving our campus and investing in the future of our school.
This is the power of believing in something bigger than ourselves. Imagine what we can accomplish when each of us finds a way to contribute to the future of Cornerstone. Together, we can do extraordinary things. One family started it. The rest is up to our community: parents, grandparents, alumni, teachers, friends, and neighbors who believe the place where our children learn should be cared for as well as they are.
It started with one family's way of doing things.
Laurie and her brother, Don
"I think Maria Montessori and my mom would have gotten along beautifully. They both understood that our environment shapes us, and that the smallest details can make the biggest difference. What a beautiful legacy to carry forward."
Laurie Durkin, Cornerstone School administrator
Every school has a list of projects that can make its campus safer, more welcoming, and better equipped for the future.
At Cornerstone, that list includes everything from essential building repairs and grounds improvements to exciting additions that enrich our children's daily experiences.
DO THE TRIM is the beginning of that work.
Every contribution helps us move forward, allowing us to address our highest-priority needs while working toward our larger vision for the campus. Some improvements may happen quickly, while others will take time and additional funding. We'll continue to assess our needs, prioritize projects, and make progress as resources allow. Together, we're building a stronger Cornerstone, one improvement, one investment, and one gift at a time.*
BUILDING THE FUTURE OF CORNERSTONE
Essential Needs
Repairs & upkeep
Campus Improvements
Buildings & grounds
Future Possibilities
Enhancements & additions
*Projects will move forward as funding allows, guided by the school's evolving priorities.
ONE CAMPUS, A THOUSAND POSSIBILITIES
Investing in the little details and larger improvements that make our school special. Caring for the buildings and essential facilities that keep our school running.
Caring for the buildings and essential facilities that keep our school running.
Buildings & Infrastructure
Creating inviting spaces for discovery, gaga competitions, and pathways to happiness!
Outdoor Spaces
These spaces have served our community for years, and now they’re ready for a little love.
Where We Are Today
These images illustrate the kinds of improvements we hope to make over time.
We will prioritize projects as funding becomes available.
WHY WE’RE ASKING OUR COMMUNITY TO DO THE TRIM
Take a moment to watch the videos below to learn more about our vision, the heart behind this campaign, and the exciting possibilities ahead for Cornerstone!
This is Laurie’s story.
A word from our Head of School.
DO THE TRIM
For Cornerstone
For the children who come next
And for Meema, who showed us how
Questions? Contact office@cornerstone.org
WHY WE GIVE