message From the Head of school & board president Dear Country Day Community, In 2019-20, more than any other year, we experienced unparalleled change and challenge. Back in September, we had no idea we would face a global pandemic and be called to quickly pivot to online learning in the spring. Yet, despite being apart physically for a large portion of the school year, our community came together to support each other in new and creative ways. With the prohibition of large events and a shelter-in-place order issued, we embraced a whole new remote learning experience together. Instead of gathering together physically in the quad or library, we shared morning meeting videos, YouTube Middle School Town Halls, and virtual book clubs. Our wonderful Parents’ Association hosted Zoom Happy Hours to connect parents and ensured that our year-end drivethrough celebrations carried the spirit of our community. We celebrated our 5th, 8th, and 12th grade students' accomplishments with lawn signs, gifts, and creative and heartfelt video graduations. This year, our community has truly demonstrated our mission to “Live Creatively” and our commitment to caring for one another. Our commitment to caring for one another was made even stronger in May as our students, parents, grandparents, alumni, friends, and faculty and staff came together for our virtual “We are Country Day” celebration and online auction. During the celebration, we shared well wishes, enjoyed musical performances, danced, played games, and simply enjoyed each other’s company. By supporting our online auction, our generous donors made possible new investments in our school that will ensure a bright future for diverse students from all over Sacramento. With the creation of our brand-new Country Day Community Fund, together we also provided muchneeded support for families in our community experiencing financial hardship due to the pandemic. Every dollar raised for the Community Fund was put toward tuition assistance in 2020-21 so those families in need can continue to be part of our vibrant community. During our virtual celebration, we asked people to contribute a word that embodies what Country Day means to them. The words “home,” “joy,” “kindness,” “friends,” and “community” were at the top of the list. In a world where it can feel like nothing is certain, one thing remains constant...no matter where we are, we are Country Day! Warmly,
Lee Thomsen Head of School 4
2019-20 Annual Report
Roxanne Elliott Board President
