Lark Ann Pickett Palma Ph.D.

Lark set my teaching career on a path that would impact thousands of educators when she chose me, in 1987, to go be trained by the Coalition of Essential schools in Providence RI. It has led me to write four books and consult in school across the nation. I will always be in debt to her for her belief in me.

We are saddened by the loss of Lark, a visionary and deeply caring leader for Catlin Gabel School. She was a gift to all of us who had the privilege of working with her.

Dan & family, Lark was such a force and wonderful school leader. Always kind and thoughtful she could navigate from the Board room to the classroom. She loved just chatting and catching up. Her mark on Catlin Gabel School is important and indelible. She will be missed. Condolences all around.

A remarkable woman! I always appreciated her insight and commitment to the Catlin Gabel School at so many alumni events in New York City.

Lark was Catlin´s catalyst for constructive change. My condolences to her family. May your memories and the memories of others bring comfort to your hearts as well as smiles to your faces. I will remember this kind and capable woman with a smile on my face. SIP

Dan and Ian, We are so sorry to hear of Lark's wonderful life gone too soon. We cherish our memories of working with you two at Heathwood. We would love to keep in touch with you. Let us know when there will be a memorial service.
Much love, Sarah and Bob Haarlow

We are so sorry to hear of Lark's passing. Lark and Dan were great neighbors and mentors. Her mother lived with them for a while and the kids enjoyed her as much as she enjoyed them. Lark so kindly advised our kids on their college plans and gave them confidence. Our memories of having them in our neighborhood are the porch parties, New Years day roasted pig and oyster party. We will never forget the Y2K party - we partied like it was 1999! So much fun and memories. They are missed and...

Dear Mr. Palma and Family, Lark was an amazing person, she was kind, compassionate, strong and a wonderful leader. She is a key role model in the story of my life and I am so grateful to have known her and to have been able to learn from her. Lark taught me how to be a strong and confident woman. She encouraged me to pursue my goals, and even when they felt lofty to me, she shared her confidence that they were attainable. She helped me prepare for my college interviews and advised me greatly...

Dan & family ~ Lark left an enduring legacy @ Catlin and throughout Portland. I will always be grateful that I was next in line to work closely with her on Catlin's Board which remains a significant time in my life. In my current endeavors I often think about her exceptional leadership, how she listened, embraced rigor and was a most strategic planner. Kudos to that search committee of many years ago that hired her from a national search and what a leap of faith for your family to move to...