Littman Family Fund for Teaching Excellence

Jaqueline Lee and Jim Gramentine

Constance and David Littman (P ’26) have generously donated to create a new endowed fund, the Littman Family Fund for Teaching Excellence. The Littman family’s path at PBDA was forever shaped by their experience in the fourth-grade pod, which served as their very first touchpoint with the school. As a result of this experience, the Littman Family Fund’s annual endowment draw will provide funds to support the salary of a member of PBDA's fourth-grade faculty. The first recipient of such recognition is PBDA veteran teacher, Jim Gramentine, who positively influenced not only the educational experience of their daughter but also countless students and alumni who have come to “the Pod” before her.

Constance and David Littman

"Our family moved to Palm Beach from New York City in January of 2022 while our daughter, Jaqueline Lee, was in the middle of her fourth-grade year. Starting at a new school in a new town mid-year can be very difficult, but Palm Beach Day Academy welcomed all of us with open arms. Thanks to the outstanding support of the fourth-grade faculty, Jacqueline Lee was able to adjust to a new environment, maintain her academics, participate in extracurricular activities, and make friends easily. Fortunately, the strong foundation established at PBDA in the fourth-grade “Pod” has allowed her to continue thriving in fifth and sixth grade.

We wanted to give a gift to the school that would specifically honor her fourth-grade teacher, Jim Gramentine. Mr. G's kind and caring demeanor paired with his love of learning created a perfect space for our daughter to thrive. We are forever grateful for the time he spent with her and the fun he added to the classroom. By the last day of school, Jacqueline Lee was dancing on the desks with Mr. G and didn't want to leave for summer break!"

Each year, the team in the fourth-grade pod has the remarkable opportunity to welcome a new group of students to the Upper Campus. We guide them through an amazing year of learning where they make a lasting leap in independence, and we invite them to cultivate their curiosity and love for learning. This pivotal year in the life of a PBDA student is successful when our students are both happily immersed in their learning and aware that they are among a passionate and caring team of teachers. The Littman Family Fund for Teaching Excellence ensures the fourth-grade pod will remain a special place. and for that, I am deeply grateful."

Jim Gramentine