N
ine years ago, Head of School Mark Reed and the Board of Trustees introduced a strategic planning process that began by asking the Country Day community about our most valued qualities and traditions, and our priorities for the future. The shared visions that evolved from that process have guided our decisions and propelled Country Day forward on a trajectory of incredible strength and growth for nearly a decade. Our focus on preparing students to lead and thrive in a fast-changing world, instilling personal integrity and well-being, inspiring a love of learning through exceptional faculty and staff, and creating a distinctive and sustainable learning environment have ensured our school’s place at the forefront of education for many years to come. Country Day could not have achieved all that it has accomplished for our students without visionary leadership, exceptional faculty and staff, and supportive community members who believe in our mission. Together, over the past five years, we have rallied around the school’s Forefront Campaign, bringing our students an even more innovative learning experience. The record $59 million raised supports new facilities that foster innovation and community, people and programs through the Country Day Fund, and long-term financial health through endowment. At the same time, we have seen record numbers of admissions applications and our reenrollment averages 96 percent. As we close the books on this highly successful strategic plan, we are also asking how we can do better at building and supporting our culture of inclusivity. To that end, the Board of Trustees established a task force to lead a communitywide Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) assessment and monitor progress toward accomplishing our school’s DEI goals. This work is important, timely, and taking place amid the unknowns of a global pandemic.
The faculty and staff have been simply phenomenal in preparing for this school year. Because of their hard work, dedication, and spirit of innovation, we were able to bring our students back to campus for blended, in-person instruction. On behalf of the Board, I offer my heartfelt gratitude for the work they have done, and continue to do every day, to keep our community safe. Even in these difficult times, I know we are all committed to giving Country Day students the very best academic experience. With an inspiring environment as their backdrop, our students are supported by gifted teachers and coaches, who are helping to prepare them to contribute meaningfully to a changing world—to solve problems, to think critically, to instill personal integrity and well-being, to lead with heart. Thank you to everyone who makes Country Day a philanthropic priority. You, our donors and volunteers, make it possible for us to remain at the forefront of education for our students. Sincerely,
Scott Stevens Chair, Board of Trustees
MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES CHAIR
Our focus on preparing students to lead and thrive in a fast-changing world, instilling personal integrity and well-being, inspiring a love of learning through exceptional faculty and staff, and creating a distinctive and sustainable learning environment have ensured our school’s place at the forefront of education for many years to come.
2019/20 ANNUAL REPORT
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