ALL SCHOOL

The Power of Three: Tyne Shillingford’s marathon journey

After nearly a decade of hoping to run the New York City Marathon, Tyne Shillingford ’03 finally crossed that finish line Sunday, completing her third marathon. The former professional dancer finished the 26.2-mile course in 7:27:17, joining more than 61,000 runners in the largest marathon in history.

Tyne’s three marathons included the Route 66 Marathon, the Chicago Marathon and, finally, New York.

Click here to read more about her journey and emotional finish in New York.

Tyne wasn’t the only Holland Hall teacher who completed the NYC Marathon on Sunday. Next week, we’ll share the story of Primary School teaching assistant Julie Bunting and how she overcame a torn ACL to complete the NYC Marathon.

Senior Night tonight for Dutch football

Tonight is Senior Night at Hardesty Field as the Holland Hall football team hosts Central in its regular-season finale. Admission is free.

Join us as we celebrate senior football players, athletic trainers, sports video students, cross country runners, and cheerleaders on Senior Night.

The Dutch clinched a district title last week with a 38-6 win at Westville, improving to 7-2 overall and 6-0 in district play.

Quarterback Liam Kaplan accounted for three touchdowns in the win, scoring twice on the ground and throwing for another.

Next week in the opening round of the playoffs, the Dutch host Victory Christian at 7 p.m. Please note that all adults and students must purchase a ticket for playoff games.

Can’t make it to the game? Watch the livestream HERE with Brandon Hart. Coverage begins at 6:50 p.m.

Cheer at Regionals on Saturday

Best of luck to Holland Hall cheerleaders this weekend as they compete in the 3A Gameday Cheer Regional competition Saturday at Stroud High School at approximately 4:30 p.m.

The team is aiming to return to state following last year’s runner-up finish.

Tradition continues: Amy Vargus runs Tulsa Run with her dad

In a tradition that began in 1981, when she was 7, Amy Vargus completed another Tulsa Run last weekend with her dad. In the past, she ran the Fun Run while her dad, Larry Williams, competed in the 15K.

Now, they run the 15K together.

Usually, Ms. Vargus runs ahead of her dad, but this year, she wanted to stay with him during the 49th annual race.

“I really wanted us to cross the finish line together, because I’m grateful for his health at 78 years old and proud of him for adhering to his motto and sharing and creating a love and joy for running. As he always says, ‘Don’t let the old man in.’ There are always new adventures.”

For Ms. Vargus, an Upper School French teacher and assistant cross country coach, her love of running comes from an emotional place.

When she was 29, she lost a close friend to breast cancer. She said she didn’t know what to do with her grief, so, despite never having run before, she decided to enter the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, an annual 5K fundraising event to support the fight against breast cancer.

“I trained on a treadmill at the gym and hated every minute,” she said. “I got to the start line and I could feel with everything in me her presence to my right side for the whole race. I ran so fast that day. That’s when I fell in love.”

Since then, Ms. Vargus has completed half-marathons and full marathons and, of course, the Tulsa Run each year with her dad.

“It’s kept me healthy, mentally and physically,” she said. “I hope that I can still do the Tulsa Run when I’m 78!”

Donate blood, save a life

On Tuesday, Nov. 10, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Holland Hall is partnering with Our Blood Institute (OBI) to help ensure lifesaving blood is available for patients throughout our community.

We invite eligible Holland Hall parents, students, faculty and staff to embrace the spirit of gratitude and service by giving a gift that costs nothing but can mean everything to someone in need.

The blood drive will take place inside the Upper School, and you can reserve a convenient time for your donation by clicking the link below.

Reserve your donation time here

Welcome to Holland Hall: Meet Matt Reed

Matt Reed is in his first year at Holland Hall where he replaced Jody Ely as the Walter Arts Center technical director. Mr. Reed also teaches two Technical Theatre classes.

Mr. Reed, a graduate of Wichita State University with a BFA in Technical Theatre Design, is responsible for the traditional duties of a technical director in the WAC, including scenic design and construction, lighting design, sound reinforcement, and theatrical maintenance. 

Before Holland Hall, tthe Winfield, Kansas, native worked for Royal Caribbean, was involved in the Rolling Stones’ 2006 tour stop, worked for DesignLab in Chicago and spent the past 15 years as director of performance facilities for the University of Tulsa’s Lorton Performance Center.  He has also worked on numerous professional productions at the BOK Center and PAC over the years.   

It was during his time at TU that he discovered his love of teaching.

Pumpkin composting event continues

The Upper School SPUD Club (HH Service Club) is back and ready to collect your pumpkins to compost from Nov. 2 through Dec. 4.

Due to construction, the location has changed. The Pumpkin drop-off is now located to the left of the Primary School playground (see map).

Questions: Wyatt Ivins (wytivins@gmail.com)

Yearbooks on sale now

The QR codes above will take you to the yearbook sales site or allow you to confirm that your order has already been placed.

James and the Giant Peach Performance at Hardesty Regional Library

The Holland Hall Upper School Advanced Acting Class presents James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl, adapted by David Wood.

This performance is part of the class’s Storybook Series Theatre and will take place at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19, at Hardesty Regional Library’s Connor’s Cove Auditorium.

The story of Roald Dahl’s classic tale is faithfully told by James himself and the insect characters — Miss Spider, Old-Green-Grasshopper, Centipede, Ladybird and Earthworm.

Join us on this epic journey through interactive storytelling, puppetry and adventure.

This is a FREE performance for all ages.

Hardesty Regional Library, 8316 E. 93rd St.

Upper School Dance concert

• When: 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12
• Where: Newman Theatre of the Walter Arts Center

Jazz Band and Chamber Strings concert

• When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17
• Where: Newman Theatre of the Walter Arts Center

Freshman Luuk Baumgart sets PR at state

Congratulations to freshman cross country runner Luuk Baumgart, who turned in his best-ever performance on his sport’s biggest stage.

Baumgart ran a personal-best time of 18:36.71 at the 3A state cross country meet at Carl Albert High School in Midwest City on Oct. 24.

He placed 66th out of 123 runners. He and senior Moritz Scheferhoff, who placed 56th in 18:19.91, competed as individuals at state.

Baumgart’s improvement over the season was impressive. Early in 2026, his 5K times were above 20 minutes. By the end of the season, he had shaved two minutes off his time.

“This season exceeded my expectations,” Baumgart said. “I don’t think I would have believed you if you would have said (at the beginning of the season) that I would have made state and made PR there. So I was pretty amazed that I got into state this year. I was really trying my hardest in regionals.”

Baumgart and Scheferhoff are both from Germany. Baumgart and his family lived in the United States, but moved back to Germany during COVID-19 before returning to the U.S. in August of last year.

“I really wanted to come back,” Baumgart said.

Both of his brothers also attend Holland Hall: Tristan Baumgart, 7th grade and Miró, 5th grade.

Luuk will now turn his attention to basketball before moving on to track in the spring.

He has ambitious cross country goals. By his senior year, he’d like to run a 16-minute or faster 5K. Sixteen minutes or under would have placed him in the top five at state this year. But, after his impressive freshman campaign, the future looks bright.

“I see Luuk having a great running career and only see him getting faster as he gets older,” boys cross country coach Greg Spencer said.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Grandparents/Special Friends Day is not a Dutch Day

Please note that Grandparents/Special Friends Day on Friday, Nov. 20, is NOT a Dutch Day. Please wear your school uniform that day.

However, Thursday, Nov. 19, WILL BE a Dutch Day.

Important reminder on food at Holland Hall

At Holland Hall, we recognize that food can be a meaningful way to celebrate traditions, culture, and community. At the same time, we remain committed to the safety and well-being of all students. To help ensure a consistent and inclusive experience for every child, faculty and staff will not purchase, provide or serve snacks, candy, soda or other food items with limited exceptions that are listed below and approved by the Branch Head in advance.

This approach supports our efforts to minimize risks related to food allergies and sensitivities, while also promoting broader health and wellness goals. We encourage the use of non-food items or shared experiences to celebrate birthdays, milestones, or other special occasions.

When meals or snacks are needed for larger group events (e.g., grade-level gatherings), Holland Hall will provide them either through Flik Dining Services or through coordinated school efforts. These occasions must be approved and planned in collaboration with the Branch Head and School Nurse at least two weeks in advance. 

By working together and honoring these shared expectations, we help ensure a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students — across all grade levels and occasions, and regardless of food allergies or sensitivities.

For more information, Holland Hall employees may refer to their Employee Handbook. Students and parents can refer to the Student Handbooks here.

Meaningful message

“All Saints Day and All Souls Day remind us that people we love remain an important part of who we are forever. … We are part of something much bigger than just the people sitting in this room. We are connected to the generations of people who came before us — our family members, friends, teachers who have taught here before, mentors, others who have loved us and taught us and encouraged us, and those who have helped us make us who we are.”

— Middle School Chaplain Christy Utter, during Tuesday’s Chapel service

Above photos: Cranes hang in All Saints Chapel to honor loved ones who have died. Photos by Chris McConnell

Free Dress Pink Out Day next week

Did your child make a donation to the Susan G. Komen Foundation? Our local representative will be here on Thursday to accept our check.

Students who contributed can come to school that day with a splash — or a lot — of pink.

We’ll announce the winning grade and our total contribution during a special gathering in the chapel Thursday.

Way to go Dutch!

PRIMARY SCHOOL

Annual Heart Challenge next week

The Primary School’s 26th annual Kids Heart Challenge will take place Wednesday, Nov. 18, during PE classes for all K-3 students.

Please consider giving to the American Heart Association to help support heart health.

Our HH kids are excited to help others.

Gobble ’til you wobble: Thanksgiving Kindergarten Comeback

We’re welcoming our first graders back to Kindergarten for an afternoon of fun, with a Thanksgiving twist.

Join Ms. McKenzie & Mrs. Rosario (Wixted) for an afternoon of Thanksgiving pretend play, festive crafts & activities, a yummy seasonal snack, and plenty of turkey-themed fun.

We’ll cook up some imaginary Thanksgiving favorites, get creative, and celebrate the season together.

Come gobble up some fun with us.

• Date: Wednesday, Nov. 18
• Time: 3-4:30 p.m.
• Grades: 1st Grade
• Where: Kindergarten Pod
• Pickup: Primary School flagpole at 4:30 PM
• Cost: $45
• Register: Email dalmohandis@hollandhall.org to register. Please let use know if your child needs aftercare.

All American Girl Doll Friendsgiving

Bring your favorite All American Girl Doll or stuffed animal to celebrate with Mrs. Connor and friends.

We’ll make friendship jewelry, play games, and make a special snack together.

• Date: Tuesday, Nov. 17
• Time: 3-4:30 p.m.
• Grades: JK-3rd Grade
• Where: First Grade Pod
• Pickup: Primary School flagpole at 4:30 p.m.
• Cost: $45
• Studentmax: 30
• Register: Email dalmohandis@hollandhall.org
• Note: Please send an email to dalmohandis@hollandhall.org if your child will need to go to aftercare.

Fall word art panels with Ms. M&M

Get ready to add a splash of color and a whole lot of heart to your fall decor with Ms. M&M’s Word Art Panel enrichment class.

In this workshop, young artists will transform a flat wooden panel into a meaningful masterpiece using techniques with painter’s tape, vibrant acrylic paints, and imagination. We’ll be channeling fall vibes, cozy autumn hues, and uplifting energy from start to finish. If dry enough, the finished panels should go home after class.

• Date: Wednesday, Nov. 11
• Time: 3-4:30 p.m.
• Grades: 1st-3rd Grade
• Where: Primary School Art Room
• Pickup: Primary School flagpole at 4:30 p.m.
• Cost: $45
• Classmax: 18
• Register: dalmohandis@hollandhall.org
• Note: Please send an email to dalmohandis@hollandhall.org if your child will need to go to aftercare.

Turkey-time fun

Get ready for a gobble-gobble-good time with Mrs. Bosworth and Mrs. McNeal.

Our little turkeys will enjoy a festive afternoon filled with Thanksgiving fun, including a silly turkey craft, a wacky turkey waddle race, and a giggle-filled game of Pin the Tail on the Turkey. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with creativity, laughter, and a whole lot of turkey-sized fun.

• Date: Thursday, Nov. 12
• Time: 3-4:30 p.m.
• Grades: Pre-K, JK, & K
• Where: Pre-K Pod
• Pickup: Primary School flagpole at 4:30 p.m.
• Cost: $45
• Studentmax: 30
• Register: Email dalmohandis@hollandhall.org.
• Note: Please send an email to dalmohandis@hollandhall.org if your child will need to go to aftercare.

El gran show de juegos

¡Bienvenidos to the Ultimate Spanish Game Show Experience!

Maestra Sims invites students to step into the spotlight for the ultimate Spanish game show experience.

Get ready to play, laugh, and compete while building real language confidence. Through fun individual and team challenges, students learn practical phrases and everyday vocabulary as they earn points and cheer on classmates. Whether your child is brand new to Spanish or already speaks it, this welcoming, low-pressure class lets every student shine and be a star.

• Date: Thursday, Nov. 12
• Time: 3-4:30 p.m.
• Grades: Kindergarten-3rd Grade
• Where: Primary School Art Room
• Pickup: Primary School Flagpole at 4:30 p.m.
• Cost: $45
• Student max: 30
• Register: Email dalmohandis@hollandhall.org
• Note: Please send an email to dalmohandis@hollandhall.org if your child will need to go to aftercare.

Winter is coming: A few dress code reminders

As the days get colder, we want to remind you of some key points on the dress code.

Please make sure sweatshirts, leggings and shoes are in line with the dress code requirements listed below.

Coats/jackets do not have to have the HH logo on them and can be purchased anywhere. We recommend heavy coats, as our students go outside any day it is above 15 degrees. Boots are not permitted.

Sweatshirts and outerwear

• A Holland Hall crewneck sweatshirt, quarter-zip, or full-zip in navy, black, or heathered gray with only the official Holland Hall H-mark logo on the left chest may be worn over a uniform shirt. These items must be purchased through Holland Hall, Lands’ End, C&J School Uniforms, Tommy Hilfiger Uniforms or another source that has received permission from the Communications Department to use the official logo. No hoodies permitted.
• Navy or black sweaters or cardigans with Holland Hall H-mark logo, sold from the above sources.
• Non-Holland Hall coats may be worn when outdoors.

Leggings

Solid black or navy leggings or tights are permitted under shorts.

Shoes

• Any good sturdy, low-heeled athletic shoe must be worn.
• EPK and PreK students — velcro or slip on shoes only; tie shoes are not permitted.
• Not permitted: Shoes with blinking lights, sandals, open-toe shoes, or shoes above the ankle height.

Get to know Mr. Reed

1. What inspired you to get into technical direction?   

I have always loved theatre and have been involved in some aspects since 2nd grade.  I started doing tech theatre in high school and fell in love with lighting design. So much so that is what I decided to major in at college.  While at WSU we studied all aspects of technical theatre so I was exposed to scenic design, set construction, sound design, etc.  That is where my main interest lies and the technical director at Halland Hall is responsible for all of those items.  The last few years at TU my job was probably around 75% venue management and only 25% theatre.  It’s nice work in a creative environment again.  

2.  What is one thing you hope every student takes away from your instruction, beyond what they learn in class?  

An appreciation for the hard work and skill that goes into making every performance possible.  

3. What attracted you to Holland Hall, and what are you most looking forward to as you begin your time here?

After being at TU for 15 years and working hands on with my student crews that had little to no tech theatre experience, I discovered that I loved teaching. Watching kids come in as freshmen with no experience and graduate as seniors ready to enter the professional theatre market if they chose was very rewarding. This position combines both theatre and teaching so it seemed like the perfect opportunity. I’m most looking forward to being a part of the plays, musicals, and concerts that Holland Hall produces. 

4. Toughest part of working on a cruise ship?

Managing 18-year-old cast members who were on their own, away from home for the first time, in international waters, and had new-found freedoms they wanted to exploit. Keeping them in line and out of trouble with the Staff Captain could be a full-time job.

5. Best part of working on a cruise ship?

Traveling the world and making life long friends.  

6.  Ever work with anyone famous?

I have worked on numerous productions involving famous people, but not in a personal context.  As an example, I didn’t meet Mick Jagger when I worked the Stones concert,  but I came within 15 feet of him.  

Some of the famous people I have gotten to work and interact with are: Sonya Sotamayore, Noel Paul Stookey, Natalie Merchant, Lovie Smith, Chris Cagle, Brandin Lea, Julius Thomas III,  Amiee Dombo Desmond, Billy Richards, Herb Reed, and Johnny Thunder.

7. Tell us a little bit about your relationship with Tyne Shillingford and Jody Ely

I met Tyne when we both lived in Chicago and she was in a dance company with my ex-wife.  I met Jody shortly after moving to Tulsa through Local 354.  I was new to Tulsa’s theatre scene and Jody helped me get acclimated.  

A few personal favs 

• FavoriteTV show: Current – Star Trek Strange New Worlds; All-time: Northern Exposure 
• What are you reading right now:Anything by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips  
• Favorite band/musical artist: Flickerstick
• Favorite stage production: Play – All My Sons by Arthur Miller; Musical – Rent 
• Favoritehobby: Model trains
• The world needs more of: Patience and understanding
• The world needs less of: Intolerance