FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
teaching dependably, in an undependable world A letter from Judith Guild
T
his edition of Brimmer Magazine focuses on the qualities of our faculty and the underlying principles that further excellence in the classroom. As I reflect back on over 30 years of teaching and learning as an educator, I am reminded of the work of Robert Fried, Deborah Meier, Grant Wiggins, Ted Sizer, and Tony Wagner. The research and scholarship of these education-reform thought leaders helped shape Brimmer’s foundational philosophy and principles. Also part of our foundation are the generations of alumni who speak of their mission-focused education built on a personalized and studentfocused environment, a rigorous and relevant curriculum, a global and volunteer-focused
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Spring 2021
Brimmer Magazine
program, and an academic foundation that intersected with character development. Those influencers of the past certainly shape our faculty’s work today, but so do current and evolving research. Brimmer’s academic leaders and professional development bring in research on methods and delivery of instruction and on the cognitive development of young thinkers. A strong foundation in best practices coupled with a faculty who have a progressive mindset for today’s classroom is a recipe for amazing success stories. Without question, the pandemic tested our commitment to the foundational principle of
providing a student-centered, personalized learning environment. As the concerns for health and safety took center stage, we made the decision in late summer to accommodate our learners in school, at home, and in a combination of the two. Our educators were determined to work around the obstacles, so we could continue with our mission to individualize the learning experience and meet our students where they are each day. You will
Above: Head of School Judith Guild addresses Middle & Upper Schoolers at this fall’s Opening Convocation. At Right: Middle & Upper School Music Teacher Max Holman leads a piano lesson with sixth graders.
