THE SCHNUGG FAMILY: 
THIRTEEN MIRAMONTE HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI

The Schnugg family, whose 13 siblings graduated from Miramonte High School over a span of 15 years, recently gathered during one of their monthly Zoom calls. Together, they reflected on their time at Miramonte and shared their thoughts as a family.

Spanning generations, the Schnugg legacy includes 13 siblings, 38 grandchildren, and 58 great-grandchildren (with more on the way!), carrying forward the strong ties to family, community, and Miramonte High School that began with Frank and Sev Schnugg. 

Can you introduce yourselves and share the graduating class for each sibling? 

The Schnugg siblings and their graduating classes are:

Steve, Class of 1967 

Mary, Class of 1968 

Peter, Class of 1969 

Susie, Class of 1970 

Nancy, Class of 1971 

Ann, Class of 1972

Jane, Class of 1973 

Patty, Class of 1974 

Sarah, Class of 1975 

John, Class of 1977 

Peggy, Class of 1978 

Tom, Class of 1980 

Libby, Class of 1982

What motivated your family to continue attending Miramonte over the years? Was it tradition, a particular experience, or a shared value?

Miramonte’s reputation for excellence in academics, sports, and community made it an easy choice for the Schnugg family over the years.

SIBLING DYNAMICS

Are there any friendly rivalries between siblings regarding school achievements or experiences?

Rather than rivalries, there was a sense of camaraderie and support among the siblings. School was about building friendships, getting involved in activities, sports, and clubs, and staying on top of homework. Siblings often joined the same clubs or teams, creating opportunities to share experiences. Occasionally the middle five or six sisters ended up joining the same clubs or teams. These experiences weren’t about competition - it was about bonding. 

The younger siblings particularly enjoyed the legacy of following in the footsteps of their older siblings. Teachers often recognized the younger siblings right away, creating a sense of continuity and connection. 

How has attending the same high school strengthened your family bond?

Attending Miramonte together created shared experiences that strengthened the family bond. Siblings saw each other during the school day, chatted about daily events - including boyfriends, girlfriends, and more! They cheered each other on at sports events. The siblings also carpooled together each morning, leading to plenty of conversation. The older siblings were well-liked by teachers and coaches, which paved the way for the younger ones, creating a welcoming environment. For the youngest sibling, Libby, having Tom at school with her provided a comforting connection, strengthened by the strong legacy her older siblings had established with teachers.

ACADEMICS & CAMPUS LIFE

What are some memorable experiences or activities you participated in on campus? Did any siblings participate in the same activities?

Memories of campus activities and experiences span the decades! 

Steve founded a volunteer service organization called La Cuadrilla, which became a significant achievement and a source of pride for him and the entire family. 

Sports played a central role for many siblings. The older brothers played basketball together, while Steve focused on tennis and Peter excelled in water polo and swimming. Some of the girls participated in sports like volleyball, swimming, and tennis, but in the early years girls' sports teams were not as organized.  At least two of the girls, Patty and Peggy, were cheerleaders, and Libby added basketball and tennis.  John and Tom played several sports, including waterpolo, swimming, basketball, as well as baseball (John) and tennis (Tom).  Several of the girls also took ballet lessons off campus, and Mary continued throughout high school. Clubs were important as well; some were involved in leadership, yearbook, and drama and class performances, and the foreign exchange program AFS. Tom spent time in Brazil, while Libby studied in Australia, reflecting the expanded possibilities available during their time at Miramonte. 

How has Miramonte High School changed during the years your family attended? What differences do older siblings notice compared to the younger siblings?

Miramonte underwent significant changes during the years the family attended. In the 1960s and early 1970s, the school maintained a strict dress code, allowing girls to wear only skirts or dresses. This policy shifted in the 1970s, eventually allowing long pants, and by the mid-to-late 1970s, shorts were also permitted. This change was welcomed by all, especially the girls who had a dress code.

Many teachers taught multiple siblings over the 15 years, creating unique connections and giving the younger siblings the “inside scoop.” Some teachers began their teaching careers with the older siblings and continued with those who followed, often taking interest in subsequent siblings due to the strong impression left by the older siblings. Having a distinctive last name made anonymity impossible, especially with teachers familiar with the family. The high bar set by the older siblings in both academics and sports created some pressure but also established a foundation of achievement and legacy. 

PERSONAL GROWTH & IMPACT

How did your time at Miramonte influence your personal or professional journey?

The time at Miramonte fostered great lasting friendships and inspired a strong drive for higher education among the siblings. Participation in competitive sports led some brothers to play at Cal and UCLA, with some earning athletic scholarships. The outstanding teachers the siblings had throughout their time at Miramonte served as mentors, inspiring studies in fields such as medicine, health, business, and education.

Were there particular mentors, courses, or moments that were especially impactful for multiple siblings?

Several siblings recall a few special teachers who had a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to learn from them. Otis McCain, the physiology teacher, was especially popular and remained a favorite among the next generation. Bill Brown made a significant impactful as both a water polo coach and a history teacher, and he continues to work toward improving children’s lives through water polo to this day. Tom Blackwood coached the brothers in basketball, taught history, and even coached some of the next generation in CYO basketball (Brad and Greg Allen). John Sanford taught Government to many siblings and also coached swimming. In arts and crafts, Mr. Gomph and other teachers left a lasting impression, clearly invested in motivating students to achieve their best. The Math, Science, and Language departments also stood out for their rigor, challenging students, including many of the sisters - a progressive approach for the time. 

REFLECTIONS

What legacy or lasting impact has Miramonte had on your family? What do you hope Miramonte will continue to offer future generations?

The Schnugg family has continued its Miramonte legacy, with the third generation now attending. Many from this second generation of Schnuggs have remained in Lamorinda and surrounding districts, raising their families there due to the legacy instilled by Miramonte.

Three sisters have had their children attend Miramonte: Ann (Kimmie and Kellie Ralph), Jane (Brad, Corinne, Greg, and Lindsay Allen), and Sarah (Erin, Kate, and Annie Loughlin). Many of these next-generation students had some of the same teachers, including Otis McCain and Mr. Whitaker. Many of the children have stayed in the Lamorinda area, drawn by the reputation of Miramonte.

The second generation of girls benefited from even more opportunities in both sports and the classes offered, which they fully embraced. Miramonte continued to keep pace with technological advancements, offering more advanced classes, and fostering a strong environmental awareness. 

The 13 siblings hope that Miramonte will continue to offer excellent academic programs, real-world experiences, and maintain its strong reputation for athletic achievements. Many of them still stay in touch with their lifelong high school friends!

For those of you with children or perhaps grandchildren, do you envision future generations of your family attending Miramonte? How many generations of your family have already gone through the school? 

Jane’s family has seen multiple generations attend Miramonte, with Gemma Leach as a proud graduate, Vivi Leach continuing the legacy as part of the third generation, and Hayden and Sloane Dorstel eagerly awaiting their turn to join the Orinda schools soon!! 

CLOSING

Is there anything special you’d like to share about your family’s experience at Miramonte? Miramonte’s commitment to broadening students’ perspectives on national and global issues stands out. This dedication is reflected in the experiences of the family’s grandchildren, who have either graduated or will soon graduate from Miramonte.

A particularly memorable moment occurred during the youngest sibling, Libby’s graduation in 1982. Many family members were in attendance to mark the end of the first generation’s journey at Miramonte. Dr. Bran Yaich, the principal at the time, invited the audience to acknowledge Frank and Sev Schnugg for their significant contribution to the school by sending all 13 of their children through Miramonte. The crowd rose in applause, creating a truly special and proud moment. This remains one of Libby’s fondest memories of her time at Miramonte. 

Fun fact about Dr. Yaich: He currently lives in Lafayette and can be seen sitting on a bench near Merrill Gardens, always willing to reminisce about his time at Miramonte!

With the December holidays soon approaching, are there any Schnugg Family Holiday traditions you’d like to share with MatsNation?

The Schnugg family has a long tradition of taking annual Christmas photos, a practice that began when there were only one or two children and became a cherished part of the holiday season. The family also made cookies to share with friends and occasionally helped families in need. Many siblings continue these traditions, including adopting families during the holidays. 

With over 150 members and counting, the Schnugg family’s reunions require some serious square footage. Perhaps the next one should be held in the Miramonte gym—it might be the only place big enough!