FINDING BALANCE, FINDING JOY

Brimmer opened the school year with 416 students—the largest enrollment we have ever enjoyed in both the Middle and Upper Schools. We planned for this growth and are thrilled to be realizing our vision. As we continue to uphold the qualities of a small school where all students are known, we are delighted to see our targeted growth achieved in each division so we can accomplish the strategic goals.

When the Hastings Center was built, we imagined an Upper School of nearly 180 students, which meant each grade’s enrollment could be between 40 and 45 students. While still small in comparison to other schools, we knew a larger graduating class size would allow for more social opportunities, improved athletic and wellness programming, a variety of talent for our performances, and enrollment in broader course selections. Likewise, the Middle School was projected to grow and meet a total size of about 100 students. We have found this enrollment number to be perfect for all that we want to accomplish with our Middle School students. With our Lower School housed in our campus’ historical buildings, we cherish the home- like environment and classrooms. We have the privilege of offering smaller class groupings in PK-5, which allows our youngest children to be well known and understood. This fall we opened Lower School’s Cummings Hall after a summer of renovations and redesign. Our fourth and fifth grade students can now learn and collaborate in a modern, central airconditioned building with well-appointed large classrooms and improved spaces.

This year’s theme, Finding Balance, Finding Joy, will help us meet several of our objectives found in the School’s Strategic Priorities 2020 & Beyond. The health and wellness of our community will be the center of our attention as we plan for the School’s future. We will examine the responses to Sasaki’s Master Planning project and evaluate our fundraising needs. Our goal is to reimagine the athletic space so that structure can meet our needs for the entire School community. Additionally, as we move into the endemic phase of the pandemic, we are mindful of the wake it has caused. Important lessons were learned during the two years of pandemic management, and the learning community showed resiliency and outstanding problem-solving skills. We will find our balance going forward as we manage this next phase so our students can recapture the joy of being curious, imaginative, and free to explore. Also, we have missed the larger Brimmer community for the last two years, and we will plan to prioritize in-person gatherings and volunteer opportunities so we can reclaim the joy it brings.

In this edition of Brimmer Magazine you will read how senior Edan Zinn ’23 finds joy in pursuing his interests while meeting his college requirements. Edan grew up at Brimmer, and it always delights me when I see a “Lifer” reveal the true nature of what it means to embrace all matters of school life. His journey reflects our mission of upholding high academic standards while implementing innovative ideas. You will also read about the School’s new Athletic Director who will lead our strategic thinking as we shape Brimmer’s athletic future. Mr. Kelly will help us shape a program that will balance strong competition, joy in the game, team- building skills, and the pursuit of health and wellness. We also welcomed a new Lower School Head to Brimmer this summer, and you will read about Mrs. Formisano’s outstanding skill and experience with young learners. Her joyful approach to being with families and children is contagious. Additionally, this edition captures many of the moments from spring 2022 when life was full of joy at Commencement, the Spring Auction, and alumni events.

I hope you will sense the vibrant programs and joyful community at Brimmer and May. With the Annual Fund exceeding one million dollars again this year, we are able to extend our resources and make Brimmer the best learning environment possible for today’s student. I am so grateful to those who make Brimmer a priority in their giving. Our future is bright, and I am humbled to be leading such a remarkable school where students are inspired, encouraged, and empowered to be the best they can be. ■

Brimmer celebrated Grade 5 during a festive Lower School Closing ceremony in June