Much has Changed, Much Remains Constant

Head of School Andy Chappell recently had the opportunity to connect with one of Derryfield’s Founders, Fran Winneg, and her son Neal ’78. While Derryfield’s campus and programs may look very different than our humble beginnings in 1964, much has remained constant. The independent, innovative, “can do” spirit upon which we were founded, as well as our “aim high” principles continue to define the Derryfield community.

Fran and her late husband Dick were interested in the idea of creating an educational option for children of the greater Manchester region, and accepted a friend’s invitation to learn more. Their son, Neal, was only four-years-old at the time.

Fran shared, “Even though it would be many years before our son went to seventh grade, it was his future. We thought it would be a school that would be better for our children (than other options). We knew we would have a voice in shaping the school, and believed the school would be there for our children.”

Neal reflected, “When I was in something like the 4th grade, I had a good friend named Jamie Carlson. His mom taught English and Latin at DS...and we tagged along with her one day, I believe it was a weekend. I don’t recall the details, but distinctly remember thinking, ‘What a cool place!’ While the specifics of the visit have faded from my memory, the positive impression or good vibes I felt on that initial introduction to the School have persisted.” Prior to that visit, he had not heard of Derryfield nor did he know the significant role his parents played in its founding. In fact, he continued to be unaware his parents were Founders when he first enrolled at DS.

Neal continued, “My parents talked to my brothers and me about most things that went on in their lives–you’d think it would have come up at some point. All our lives they had impressed upon us, early and often, the importance of education.” Neal surmised that because his parents believed the importance of education was fundamental they didn’t view their contributions as particularly notable.

Neal begs to differ, “It was a BIG DEAL! Derryfield provided me with wonderful opportunities, in a supportive environment that was conducive to trying new things. That community still exists today and is what makes Derryfield special to me.”