FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dear Charleston Day School Families,
Twenty-five years ago, two good friends and I backpacked across a remote corner of Greenland. We spent 10 days with no contact with other human beings, following reindeer hunter paths and regularly fording streams formed by closeby melting glaciers. Every time we had to cross one of those rivers it was a thrill, pushing us to our limits, challenging our creativity, and forcing us to rely on each other to stay safe and make progress on our journey.
In a way, that part of my adventure in the Arctic reminds me of how my tenure is starting here at Charleston Day. I'm stepping into a river of momentum that is flowing rapidly, fed by many tributaries of positive energy. It is so exciting to be joining an institution that is already moving in such a positive direction.
“I'm stepping into a river of momentum that is flowing rapidly, fed by many tributaries of positive energy.”
The most essential markers of health in an independent school are solid, sound, and trending upwards here at Charleston Day. The unequivocal focus of all programming at the school is student learning and growth. We opened the school year above our targeted enrollment number. The number of inquiries for our first open house of the fall are close to double from 2024. Last year's Gateway Giving marked a new high for the school and this year, faculty and staff gave at 100% by the earliest date ever.
The faculty here have taken on exciting initiatives, onboarding a new schedule, starting an ambitious curriculum alignment project, and instituting new expectations around student conduct. The thirst for professional development is evident and, as teachers grow in their profession, the standard of academic excellence only continues to rise. Initiatives around social and
emotional programming complement our advances in academics, keeping us focused on growing Scorpions with admirable character. Fall sports teams have had marked success and excitement for basketball season is palpable.
Add to all of this a focused and thoughtful process for renovations to the Fielding building and plan for the next iteration of our campus. In almost every conversation I have, families and other members of the Charleston community feel that we will emerge from this planning process with a physical plant designed to encourage further evolution of the tried and true Charleston Day program - for generations of learners to come.
Like the trekking poles that supported me as I traversed frigid Greenlandic streams, I have had phenomenal help as I get to know this wonderful community. I am so grateful to my colleagues, the Board of Trustees, and all of the families associated with Charleston Day for welcoming my family and me and helping me understand what makes this place so special. Let’s link arms to harness this moment and open CDS’ next chapter with optimism and continued, enthusiastic headway.
With Appreciation,
Jon Meredith Head of School
Kindergarten Then & Now
Preparing for Growth and Promise CHARLESTON DAY SCHOOL
During the 2026-2027 school year, Charleston Day School will embark on an exciting expansion of its kindergarten program to two full sections. It’s a moment that invites reflection on how far kindergarten has come at CDS, and how this growth will open new doors for our youngest learners.
Looking Back:
The First Kindergarten Class
The current 8th grade, the class of 2026, includes members of the inaugural kindergarten class. When Charleston Day School welcomed its first kindergarten class in the 2017-2018 school year, it marked a defining moment in the school’s history. With the launch of kindergarten, the school embraced younger learners and extended its commitment to early academic and social foundation.
Kindergarten Today: Foundations for Lifelong Learning
Now, kindergarten is firmly woven into the fabric of Charleston Day School. The program is designed around a nurturing, trust-filled environment where children are encouraged to be curious, resilient, independent thinkers and problem-solvers.
“Miss Garden was an important teacher for kindergarten. She instilled great values such as being kind.”
-Cian Green, '26
Over that first year, kindergarten students were small in number but large in impact. They joined in assemblies, holiday shows, and mixed-grade activities, bringing with them fresh perspective, energy, and fostering new connections across the CDS community. Teachers witnessed growth in confidence, maturity, and belonging.
When asked, the 8th grade students from that first class cite the warm relationships and the attention teachers gave to each child’s individual learning style as among their favorite aspects of their year. “It is a small school that allows for a more personal type of learning, which I believe was a great benefit to us that year and every year,” noted Annie Liipfert, ‘26.
Expanding in 2026-2027: Two Sections, One Vision
In response to growing demand and the success of the kindergarten’s foundational purpose, the 2026-2027 school year will see kindergarten expand to two full sections. “Charleston Day has always been intentional about growth, ensuring that any expansion supports our mission and the experience of every child. With continued interest from families who value our small classes, strong
The official opening of CDS’ first kindergarten class in the fall of 2018.
After completing summer renovations of the kindergarten playground, members of the inaugural kindergarten class, current 8th graders, participated in the re-opening of the playground this past August.
CHARLESTON DAY SCHOOL
academics, and nurturing community, the time was right to expand our kindergarten into two sections,” commented Catherine Skeen, Director of Enrollment. Here’s what families and the CDS community can expect with this expansion:
1. Maintaining Small Class Sizes & Strong Teacher-Student Bonds
Though there will be more students overall, CDS is committed to preserving the intimacy and individualized attention of the kindergarten experience. Each section will be staffed with skilled, caring teachers who uphold the school’s values of scholarship, integrity, respect, and responsibility.
2. Broadening Community Access
More spots in kindergarten means more families can begin CDS at this formative stage. It strengthens the pipeline for students who thrive in a K-8 model and builds early connections within our school community.
3. Continuity & Alignment
Both sections of kindergarten will engage in the same rigorous, developmentally appropriate curriculum, aligned with the experience of past classes. CDS’ special area classes, daily schedule, routines, and character education will remain consistent, ensuring that all kindergarteners start with the same strong foundation. Parents can expect familiar touchpoints: morning meeting, rotating library bags, a focus on phonics, and the enriched schedule of specials.
Why This Matters
Expanding kindergarten is more than adding a classroom—it’s investing in the future. Early education research underscores that experiences in kindergarten shape not only academic skills (reading, math, writing), but also soft skills like self-regulation, collaboration, confidence, and empathy.
By growing thoughtfully, Charleston Day School is doubling down on its mission to “foster scholarship, integrity, respect, and responsibility” starting from the youngest learners. Miss Garden reflected on these first eight years of the program. “When we launched the kindergarten program, our hope was to create a joyful beginning to a lifelong love of learning. It has been deeply rewarding to see how the program has grown while remaining true to its roots. It continues to foster curiosity, confidence, and kindness in our youngest students.”
For CDS, kindergarten is not a preliminary step; it’s a cornerstone. The expansion represents a reaffirmation. We believe that every child who joins CDS matters and is a contributing member of our community. As the school moves towards two sections of kindergarten, we do so rooted in our history and optimistic for all that lies ahead.
(L to R) Cian Green, James Hagood, CJ Seaman, and Benton Goodwin talk about 3-D shapes.
(L to R) Collins Duffy, Anderson Shortridge, Lang Osborne, Annie Liipfert, Mills Henderson, and David Looper enjoy partner reading.
CJ Seaman, Cian Green, and David Looper flip through their memory books and read a personal note from Miss Garden.
Installing Charleston Day’s New Head of School
This fall, the Charleston Day School community came together to celebrate a joyful milestone — the installation of Mr. Jon Meredith as the eighth Head of School. The event brought a true sense of community to campus, with students, faculty, trustees, alumni, and families gathering to honor both Charleston Day’s enduring traditions and the exciting future ahead.
“Each one of you is here because we believe in your potential to grow as learners who respect truth, treat each other with respect, and accept responsibility for our actions.”
The ceremony was filled with the spirit and charm that make CDS so special. Recent graduates Eugenia Burtschy and Julien Parker offered a light-hearted “orientation” for Mr. Meredith, preparing him for the many beloved school traditions that await him throughout the year. William Cogswell, City of Charleston Mayor and member of the Class of 1989, and Jamie Hood, current Board Chair and member of the Class of 1991, shared their reflections on the deep connection between the School and the city of Charleston and their optimism for a continued partnership.
In his remarks, Mr. Meredith expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome he and his family have received and spoke about his hopes for the journey ahead. “Each one of you is here because we believe in your potential to grow as learners who respect truth, treat each other with respect, and accept responsibility for our actions.”
With more than three decades of experience in independent school education and a student-centered approach to leadership, Mr. Meredith brings both wisdom and warmth to his new role. His installation marks not only the beginning of his tenure, but also a sense of community, purpose, and pride across campus.
Jamie Hood shakes Mr. Meredith's hand at the end of the installation ceremony.
Mr. Meredith poses with guest presenters. From L to R: Julien Parker ‘25, Jamie Hood ‘91, Jon Meredith, William Cogswell ‘89, Ann E. Rice Ervin, Eugenia Burtschy ‘25
Jon Meredith, his wife, Eleanor, and his daughter, Cecile, celebrate the morning.
Meet the Merediths Cocktail Social
Thank you to the Parents’ Council, the Board of Trustees, and members of the CDS Team for coordinating a special cocktail social in honor of Mr. Meredith and his wife, Eleanor. Friends, old and new, reconnected and toasted to this exciting new chapter in Charleston Day’s story.
The party, hosted at the Fielding space, gave many an opportunity to see the newly turfed play area for the first time. The addition of the turf at the Fielding property expands the open green space available to our students. (See p. 6 for more Fielding renovation updates.)
A Renovation Project
The Fielding House tells an important part of the story of our city. For decades, it has stood as a symbol to the broader Charleston community of stewardship, generosity, and local legacy, and we are humbled to be caretakers of this historic property. Now, that story is ready for its next chapter.
Since acquiring the property in the fall of 2023, the School has carefully gathered data and input about campus needs and the best ways to utilize existing space as well as the new opportunities the Fielding property provides.
Over the summer, the School completed the cut-through path that runs from the back of the kindergarten playground, through 7 Magazine’s yard and driveway (another school property), and to the gate of the Fielding playground. While students enjoyed a play space at Fielding last year, more improvements were made over the summer, and the majority of the open space at Fielding is now turfed providing many options for recess and outdoor activities.
“I am excited to work with carefully curated groups, following a clear plan of action, to bring this phase of campus planning to fruition.”
-Jon Meredith, Head of School
Most recently, the school shared an updated survey to gather more insight about priorities not only for Fielding, but also for the space on the existing 15 Archdale campus. Between now and early December, Charleston Day’s Campus Planning Team will work hand in hand with architects to reimagine the Fielding House and create a thoughtful master plan for the entire campus.
As Jamie Hood, current Board Chair, shared last spring, the focus of this first phase is the Fielding House Renovation, an endeavor that honors the Fielding family’s legacy while shaping spaces that will serve our school community for years to come. Partnering with e.e. fava architects, the school envisions a transformation that is both respectful and forward-thinking. Our goal is to create a place that can adapt, inspire, and connect.
At the same time, Liollio Architecture will guide the creation of a comprehensive campus master plan, looking beyond Fielding to explore how existing spaces might be reimagined and how new construction could enhance every student’s learning experience.
This is more than a renovation; it’s a renewal. As Charleston Day blends tradition with innovation, the reimagined Fielding House will continue to be a gathering place where stories begin; ideas grow, and the spirit of our community endures.
4th graders hold the gate open to the Fielding playground.
8th grade families gathered for a (friendly) Sunday evening game of Kickball. Parents faced off against students at the newly turfed Fielding space.
Excellence in Teaching Award
B encourages students through each step of an activity.
CHARLESTON DAYSCHOOL
Excellencein Te achingAward
Charleston Day School is proud to present the 2025 Excellence in Teaching Award to Ms. Kate Brundrett, Lower School science teacher and resident naturalist. Known affectionately as “Ms. B,” she has brought boundless energy, creativity, and curiosity to our classrooms and campus.
Ms. B is an exceptional science teacher whose commitment extends far beyond the grades she teaches; she is a resource and inspiration for the entire CDS community. Every day she brings science to life in her classroom in the most engaging and meaningful ways. She has a remarkable ability to turn curiosity into learning using hands-on experiments, real world connections, and a genuine enthusiasm that's contagious.
As a colleague noted, “Her teaching reflects deep content knowledge, a genuine passion for science, and a constant drive to engage students through meaningful lessons. On top of that Kate is organized, creative, incredibly patient, and truly understands children as learners with unique needs and emotions.”
Her award reflects not only her deep knowledge of content and pedagogy, but also her lasting impact on the lives of students. Animals, insects, and critters of all kinds seem to find their way into her classroom, often carried in proudly by children who cannot wait to show their discoveries to Ms. B. These small moments that are spontaneous and filled with curiosity capture the essence of her teaching.
The Excellence in Teaching Fund was established by the Kronsberg family in September, 2016. The intention of the Excellence in Teaching Fund is to award one faculty member annually whose contributions of talent and time have directly impacted the Charleston Day School community and the lives of the students. The candidate can be nominated by peers, former faculty members, and alumni.
Ms. B cheers as 3rd graders launch their parachutes to demonstrate air resistance.
Ms.
Kate Brundrett poses with the Head of School after receiving her recognition.
WITHIN THE GATES
Parents’ Council
Powered by Parents’ Council
Behind every great Charleston Day event, there’s a team of incredible parents making it happen. The Parents’ Council organizes school favorites like the Halloween Carnival, Spirit Days, and Field Day, while also lending a hand in the Scorpion’s Den and supporting our teachers. Their enthusiasm and dedication make a lasting impact on the CDS experience.
Want to join the fun? Look for volunteer opportunities in The Communicator each Friday or contact Parents’ Council
President Leslie Chapman at cdsparentscouncil@gmail.com.
WELCOME
2025–2026 Parents’ Council Chairs
President
Leslie Chapman
Vice President
Claire Byrd
Treasurer
Sarah Best
Vice Treasurer
Liza Kunkel
Back to School Social
Cindy Hayes, Molly Waring
Halloween Carnival
Maggie Clark, Jessica Johnston
Bingo Night
Mary Katherine Henderson, Claire Loehr
Faculty Appreciation
Megan Maner, Jayne Shiver
Field Day
Bliss Lansing, Aemelia Mauldin
Used Uniforms
Laura Greaver, Beverly Helms
Spirit Days
Nicole Nevill, Meg Stokenberry
Greenery Sales
Mary Neill McKie,
Margaret Todd Truluck
Spirit Wear
Katye Fayard, Corie Hipp
Scorpion’s Den
Jill Fitzhenry, Megan Mozingo
Bliss Lansing (left) and Aemelia Mauldin (right) are old hats at managing the details of Field Day. They signed up again to organize this favorite CDS tradition!
The 2025-26 Parents’ Council president, Leslie Chapman (left) and vice president, Claire Byrd (right)
Laura Cotton, parent volunteer, mans the Scorpion’s Den student store during morning carpool.
Spirit Day chairs, Nicole Nevill (left) and Meg Stokenberry (right), show their Scorpion pride at this fall’s Spirit Day assembly.
CAMPUS CANDIDS
1. 5th grade Bigs meet their 1st grade Littles for the first time!
2. 8th graders work in groups in the 3rd floor Boardroom that has been updated to a math space this year.
3. Connor, 8th, interviews Camille, 1st, ahead of new student assembly introductions.
4. Everybody is unique! Kindergarteners, Lucy and Cleveland, display patterns in their zebras' stripes.
5. Using the balcony at 17 Archdale, 3rd graders launch parachutes to test air resistance.
6. Students show their red or blue team pride at Spirit Day.
7. The 6th grade volleyball team celebrates a win with Coach G.
8. Anuket, Lawrence, and Peter carefully sift through layers of dirt to excavate hidden “artifacts” from early man and prehistoric time.
9. John and the 5th grade group walk through the check-in process at The Charleston Place as part of their Resort Report math project.
WITHIN THE GATES
Graduation Spotlight
Above: The class of 2025 pose on the historic steps of St. John’s Lutheran Church for their final class photo as students of Charleston Day School.
Left: Class of 2025 8th grade class mural.
When Friendships Feel Like Family
By Trevor (Trip) Lind, President, Class of 2025
I’ll never forget my first day at CDS. I felt so nervous and small, and Charleston Day seemed so large and unfamiliar. I recall timidly entering my 5th-grade classroom, and before I could even settle into my seat, I was bombarded with questions about who I was, where I was from, and what sports I played (I play squash, which no one had heard of). Immediately, I found myself in conversation with kids whose names I had yet to learn. I can also remember excitedly sharing the details of that first day with my parents. I now realize, as we are about to graduate, that I was embarking on what would be the best four years of my life, with a group of strangers whom I am now fortunate to call my friends.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better group of kids to have laughed, learned, and grown up alongside.”
made every day memorable for me. My favorite day this year was the one on which we played the police vs. student basketball game. We all huddled up, assigned a coach, who was Julien, and he hyped us up before the game. The faculty got the better of us, but the outcome didn’t matter; we were just enjoying our time together as a class working towards a common goal.
-Trip Lind
I sometimes wonder what it was about our class that made us so special. For me, it’s the tight bonds we’ve forged over the years. Those connections are what have
We’ve also had our disagreements, such as whether the Knicks or the Pacers would win the Eastern Conference Finals. Through it all, we have stuck together as a class of friends who genuinely care for and about one another.
We are a connected group of kids. Our friendships feel like family– well, come to think of it, nearly half of y’all actually are family. This class-family of ours extends beyond those of us graduating today and includes
continued on page 12
CHARLESTON DAY SCHOOL
our parents, grandparents, and siblings. We even know the names of each other’s pets and have occasionally debated which of those pets is best. Of course, that’s kind of silly, since everyone knows that my dog, Gatsby, is the winner.
The memories we have forged at Charleston Day will stay with us forever. We couldn’t have asked for a better group of kids to have laughed, learned, and grown up alongside. I will always look back warmly on Charleston Day and all the students, teachers, and staff with whom we’ve shared these amazing years.
Among the highlights of our CDS experience were our class trips, minus, of course, the 8-hour bus rides, to and from. On those trips, we socialized with each other while simultaneously sharing learning experiences outside of the classroom.
My favorite class trip – and I believe I speak for the entire class – was our trip this year to Washington, D.C. We visited many of our capital’s significant sites and were even able to attend an NBA game. If there was anything we didn’t already know about each other, we knew it by the end of that trip.
Our class also made CDS history this year when our basketball A-team won the Trident League championship, the second time ever for Charleston Day. We were awarded a serious trophy as well as a banner, which now hangs in the gym. The banner symbolizes our class’s athleticism, accomplishment, and sportsmanship. Hopefully, that banner will inspire future classes to achieve their own greatness and go beyond.
Another core memory from this year was the community service projects we participated in. Collectively, our favorite was helping re-landscape the ground around Colonial Lake. Another favorite of the class was our recent visit to the shelter, where we fed, played with, and cared for the animals. What made these community service projects special for our class was knowing we were making an impact in the community we call home.
To our parents, this is your moment too! You were always there for us, even when “being there” for us
meant “putting up with” us. Your unwavering support and commitment to our success made this day possible. You helped us with our homework and our growing-up struggles, paid our tuition bills, and guided us through our high school applications. You got us out the door every morning – even when we would have preferred to stay home. We are aware that attending Charleston Day has been a privilege, and we are grateful beyond words.
Next year, we’re headed in a lot of different directions. An unprecedented number of us will attend boarding schools, far from Charleston, while the rest of us will attend the very best high schools in Charleston. Despite our physical separation as a class, I fully hope and expect our friendships to endure. I’m already looking forward to our reunions over school vacations.
My goal as class president was to leave CDS better than I found it. I firmly believe that our Class has left a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. Whether that is by our athletic prowess, displayed by our banner, or our class gift, the sandwich bar. Or maybe from our teachers, telling their new students what a wonderful class we were. We will miss CDS and our classmates. Our Charleston Day experience will always be a part of who we are and who we will become.
Finally, on behalf of the great class of 2025, I would like to extend our most sincere gratitude to the CDS faculty and staff for their unfailing commitment to our success and for bringing their enthusiasm and tireless efforts to our school every day. You have walked beside us and watched us grow. We will never forget you. To my classmates, never change who you are; staying true to yourself and your values is a virtue. Don’t be afraid to try new things, and don’t be afraid to fail. We’re all stepping into the unknown, but we are not alone. I love y’all so much, and can’t wait to see what we each do in our next chapters. Thank you!
CLASS OF 2025 HIGH SCHOOL ACCEPTANCES
Academic Magnet High School*
Ashley Hall
Bishop England High School
Dana Hall*
Episcopal High School*
Foxcroft School
James Island IB Program
Lucy Beckham High School*
Phillips Exeter Academy*
Porter-Gaud School*
Proctor Academy
St. Andrew’s School*
St. George’s School*
St. Paul’s School
The Taft School*
Village School of Naples*
Wando High School
Westminster School
Woodberry Forest School*
*matriculation
Awards & Accolades
Head of School’s Award: Trevor Pierre Lind
Established in 1998 by Gregory J. O’Melia and Edgar S. Jaycocks, this prize recognizes a member of the graduating class who has exhibited a genuine love of learning through commitment and hard work at Charleston Day School. This award underscores the belief that true academic scholarship should be judged not only by one’s grade point average, but also by the student’s diligence, effort and sincere desire to learn.
Faculty Award: Mary Scott Parker
This award is given to an 8th grader who, in the faculty’s opinion, best exemplifies the ideals of good manners, neatness in appearance and work, and good character.
The Archdale Achievement Award:
William Evans Martin IV
This award is given for outstanding academic achievement in all areas, and for willingness to serve others.
Esprit de Corps Award: Julien Frost Parker
This award, established in 1996, recognizes the eighth grader who epitomizes devotion to and enthusiasm for the common spirit of the entire student body.
The Gordon Scott Gillespie Prize:
William Duncan Grant
Established by Mrs. Gillespie and her daughter Brook, this award is in memory of Brook’s father, who died while she was an eighth grader. In a year in which it is given, it is awarded to the student who shows special interest and a desire to delve deeper than is required into his or her schoolwork and projects.
The Thomas W. Alexander Creativity Award: Frances Pruett Pelzer
The Thomas W. Alexander Creativity Award was established in 2003 by the family and friends of Tom Alexander, a successful advertising executive and proud CDS alumnus, parent and grandparent. This award is given to a student in grades 6-8 who best demonstrates creativity in his/her life, schoolwork or hobbies.
The Ashmead F. Pringle, Jr. Award
Don Henry Brown III
The Ashmead F. Pringle, Jr. Award was established in 2025 by Margaret (Peggy) Pringle Schachte ‘61 in memory of her father, a person of irrepressible humor who could delight children of all ages. This award celebrates a sixth grader who exhibits an exuberant enjoyment of life, rich sense of humor, and positive influence on others.
The Brendan O’Shea Citizenship Award: Eugenia Elisabeth Burtschy
Established in honor of Brendan O’Shea, whose 13-year tenure as Head of School was marked by a culture of civility. This award recognizes a student who has demonstrated service, leadership, responsibility, character and discipline.
The Josephine Little Townsend Award: Caroline Ann Bennett Robinson
This award was established in memory of Jodie Townsend after her death, during her fifth grade year at Charleston Day School. Recipients should display intelligence, love of reading, well-roundedness, ability to get along with others, optimism, and should be a top student in his or her class. It is awarded only to fifth graders.
Fourth Grade Award: Bowen Givens Chapman, Jr.
Established in honor of Noel Kunes, former 4th grade teacher, this prize recognizes a student’s effort, attitude and positive relationships with his or her peers.
The Braveheart Award
This award was established by the Class of 1996. It recognizes students whose strong work ethic, optimism and strength of character best exemplify the spirit of Charleston Day School.
Grades 1-4: Robert Lee Wimberly III
Grades 5-8: Bowers Hills Cantwell
French Society Award: Trevor Pierre Lind
Presented by the French Society of South Carolina to the student who demonstrates excellence in the French language and interest in promoting French culture.
The Julia Mayrant Rees Simonds Award: Bowers Hills Cantwell
Established in 1999, in memory of Julie Simonds, Class of 1987, this award is presented to the student who embodies a spirit of openness and a desire to learn more about France, its language and its people.
Bobby Wimberly receives the Braveheart Award and a hug from Ms. Beachley, Interim Head of School.
Spanish Award: Harold Whittemore Walker Shealy
Presented to the student who demonstrates excellence in the Spanish language and interest in promoting Spanish culture.
English Award: Mary Scott Parker
Established in 1998 to recognize particular excellence in English.
The Harriet C. Wilson Award: Hamilton Cuyler Applegate
Established in 1995 by an alumna of Charleston Day School, this award honors Miss Wilson’s contributions to our community as a history teacher. Her standards were very high, but she was always able to inspire a sense of self-confidence in those with whom she worked. She strove to make the past come alive for her students, and she imbued them with a love of history. To reflect her spirit, this award is presented to an eighth grader who exhibits the enthusiasm, the interest and the potential to become a genuine scholar in the study of history.
Justine Finch Math Award: Trevor Pierre Lind
Established in 1998 as the Math Award, this award was renamed in 2014 to the Justine Finch Math Award and is presented to the student who displays excellence in mathematics as well as a desire to achieve at the highest level. The award is named in honor of Mrs. Finch, who taught math at Charleston Day for 26 years, from 1988-2014. Her exacting standards coupled with her expectation that each individual student perform to his or her highest capability helped establish Charleston Day’s math program as the best in the area. Countless students benefited from her emphasis on organization, checking work, daily preparation and review, as well as her high expectations for each child.
Science Award: William Augustus Aaron
Established in 1998 to recognize particular excellence in science.
John Winthrop Young Historians Scholarship: Connor Elizabeth Wright
Established in 2013 by the generosity of Mr. John Winthrop of Charleston. Each year the award is given to a seventh grader who is distinguished in the study of history of our country and the world.
Marcia E. West Technology Award:
Jacob Bowers Folk
Established in 1998 to recognize particular excellence in computers.
Audrey Elizabeth Grice Art Award:
Mary Scott Parker
This award was established in 2002 in memory of Audrey Grice, member of the Class of 2006. Audrey was an exceptional art student, whose energetic spirit and love for life were reflected in her work. This award recognizes particular excellence in art.
Music Award: Julien Frost Parker
Established in 1983 to recognize especially noteworthy achievement in music.
Athletes of the Year Award: Lydia Edings Pinckney Blessing, Harold Whittemore Walker Shealy
Awarded to an accomplished athlete of strong character who has shown exemplary sportsmanship, concern for fellow teammates, and a strong work ethic.
Sarah Huger Jervey Award: Trevor Pierre Lind
Established in 1947 in remembrance of Miss Sadie Jervey, whose school for grades 1 and 2 was the parent school of Charleston Day School. In 1939, she merged her school with the Day School, and taught there until 1945. It is awarded to the eighth grader with the highest cumulative academic average over the past three years.
Charleston Day School Scholar: Cian Isidro Green
To the sixth, seventh or eighth grader with the highest academic average for this year.
Fifth Grade High Honors: Caroline Ann Bennett Robinson
Sixth Grade High Honors:
Margot Wright David, Rebecca Sullivan Kunes
Seventh Grade High Honors: Cian Isidro Green
Eighth Grade High Honors: Trevor Pierre Lind
Class of 2021 College Bound
Sam Applegate Tulane University
Talmage Askins Catawba College
Emmaline Burnett University of South Carolina Capstone Scholars
Jesse Claypoole Clemson University
Meade Cogswell Clemson Business School
Spencer Edgerton Davidson College
Fletcher Ethington-Carl Wofford College
Lula Galvan Wheaton College
Grace Griffin UNC Chapel Hill
Robert "Mac" Grubb Haverford College
Elizabeth Habakus University of Tennessee
Reagan Hannus UCLA
Thomas Hershey Sewanee
William Hughes Sewanee
Jack Josey UT Austin Honors within School of Civic Leadership
Jay Keenan University of South Carolina
Cole Landers College of Charleston
Danny Larkin College of Charleston
Gates McCants Wofford College
Jackson McLaughlin Clemson University Honors
Perrin O’Kelley Clemson University
Elizabeth Richardson Wofford College
Callie Sanders
University of South Carolina
Jonah Stephenson NC State
Caiden Sumner
Garnet Tobin
Ben Williamson
University of Georgia
University of South Carolina
University of South Carolina
Henry Williamson University of Colorado
*Includes student information available at time of publication
BEYOND THE GATES Alumni News
Class of 2010
Steven Craig married Amelia Rzeczycki from Hilton Head, SC. They met at Clemson and dated ever since. Steven is an investment banker at William Blair in Charlotte, and Amelia is a registered nurse who works in the cardiac cath lab for Atrium Hospital. They currently reside in Charlotte.
Class of 2013
David Grubbs and Liza Johnson celebrated their engagement with a crowd of CDS friends and former parents!
Class of 2017
Liza Bradley graduated Summa Cum Laude in Health Sciences from Clemson University.
Emily Dyke graduated from the University of Denver in June. Emily graduated Magna Cum Laude with a major in Psychology and minors in criminology and political science. Following graduation, she moved to Washington, DC and is working as a staff assistant for Rep. Rick Allen (R-GA).
Donovan Smith and his CDS graduate siblings celebrated his graduation from Auburn University.
Manning Unger graduated from Clemson and is working at Booz Allen Hamilton here in Charleston.
Class of 2019
Hale Ferguson and his mom climbed the Grand Teton in Jackson Hole last summer! It was 7000’ vertical gain to the summit for a final climb of 13,775 feet and 15 miles round trip over two days. Amazing accomplishment!
Class of 2021
Thomas Hershey, Garnet Tobin, Gates McCants, Perrin O’Kelley, Callie Sanders, and Sam Applegate posed for a quick photo before attending Ashley Hall’s prom.
William Hughes graduated from Christ school and is running cross country and track at Sewanee this year. Talmage Askins is playing football at Catawba College, and Mac Grubb is playing lacrosse at Haverford College.
Class of 2022
Congratulations to Jackson Shealy who was named the Live 5 Star Friday Night Lights Player of the Week earlier this fall.
Scan the QR code to submit a class note or update your contact information.
Class of 2023
Atticus Mauldin celebrated his 16th birthday with several CDS friends! (L to R) Brady McLaughlin, Kenny Kempinski, Atticus Mauldin, Oliver Sharpley, Banks Cummings, Jackson Thomas, and Jackson Twilley
Kathy Dollason Hughes '94, former CDS 4th grade teacher, is currently the faculty advisor for the National Honor Society at Ashley Hall. She had the pleasure of inducting several former Scorpions into the NHS this year– Sally Rowson, Molly Mettler, Elizabeth (Betsy) Brisson), and Liza Hood
Class of 2024
These friends had time for a quick “CDS homecoming photo” at Porter-Gaud’s Homecoming this fall. (L to R) Caroline Morris, Wright Ghegan, Regan Stryker, Merris Dukes, Neely Thomas, Reed Lesemann, Burns Hamilton, and Braylen Manigault
Classes of 2022, 2023, & 2024
While visiting Montreat, Hunter and Gretchen Dawson, Burns Hamilton, and Graham Shortridge joined forces for a backpacking adventure.
Loretta Young Memorial Alumni Basketball Game
Mark your calendars to join fellow alums for the annual Loretta Young Memorial Basketball Game in honor of CDS employee and friend, Miss Loretta. Meet us in the CDS gym Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
Look for emails and social media announcements closer to the date to RSVP for this special alumni gathering.
Interested in attending the basketball game? Submit a class note, so we can email you an invitation!
Student Council at Charleston Day School
One of the many benefits of Charleston Day School’s K–8 structure is the natural opportunity it provides for leadership. Older students are encouraged to take on meaningful roles, guiding younger classmates and contributing to the life of the school. One of the primary vehicles for developing these leadership skills is the Student Council, a program designed for students in grades 4 through 8.
“As president, I’ll work hard to make sure we come together as not just students, but as a family through service projects throughout the year, teamwork, and moments where we celebrate one another.”
-Kathleen Lynn ‘26, 8th grade class president
An Election Process That Builds Confidence
Each fall, students in Grades 4 through 7 elect class presidents and team captains, while 8th graders take on expanded roles as class president, vice president, secretary/treasurer, and team captains. Candidates prepare and deliver speeches outlining why they would make strong representatives for their classmates and the school community. Through this process, students gain valuable experience in public speaking, goal setting, and self-reflection, all hallmarks of strong leadership.
Leadership in Action
Once elected, Student Council members commit to representing their classmates and leading with integrity. They plan events that promote school spirit, such as volunteering to be “Spirit Captains” at morning carpool on Spirit Day, and they help strengthen the sense of community that defines Charleston Day.
Service and philanthropy are also central to their mission. This year’s projects include designing and entering a giant greeting card in the James Island Festival of Lights competition, partnering with Rooted in Change to revitalize the garden bed in the green space by 17 Archdale, and joining the Souper Bowl of Caring with ABC News 4 this winter.
The 2025-26 8th Grade Student Officers, (L to R) Kathleen Lynn, president, Annie Liipfert, secretary/treasurer, Edward Rawl, vice president.
Volunteers build excitement during morning carpool on our first CDS Spirit Day of the year.
Leadership That Lasts
Through Student Council, Charleston Day students learn to listen, communicate, and take initiative — skills that extend far beyond the classroom. By combining responsibility with service, our student leaders discover that leadership is not about recognition, but about making a positive impact on their school and community. “Student Council gives our students authentic leadership experiences,” said Meghan Fisher, faculty sponsor. “They learn how to listen to their peers, communicate their ideas, and take action for the good of the school. It’s incredible to watch them grow in confidence and realize that leadership isn’t about being in charge. It’s about serving others and making a difference.”
The 2025-26 class president, Kathleen Lynn, outlined 3 goals for the Student Council this year during her speech to the school shortly after being installed as 8th grade president.
1. Build school spirit and encourage students to attend home athletic games.
2. Encourage community projects like the giant greeting card entry and garden update.
3. Promote 8th grade camaraderie by using 8th grade traditions as times to strengthen connections within the class.
The 2024-25 CDS Student Council class officers and team captains.
Students discuss ideas during the first full Student Council meeting of the 25/26 school year.
Volunteers stay for after-school shifts to paint the giant greeting card that will be on display at the James Island Festival of Lights this holiday season.
From the Chair, Board of Trustees
Dear CDS Families, Friends, and Supporters,
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”
— William Butler Yeats
This quote beautifully captures the essence of our mission: to ignite curiosity, foster scholarship, and nurture the values of integrity, respect, and responsibility in every student. As we move through another exciting academic year, I am honored to share an update on the progress, priorities, and vision that continue to shape our beloved school. Serving as Chair of the Board of Trustees is both a privilege and a responsibility—one rooted in our shared commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience for every child who walks through our doors.
Celebrating Growth and Achievement
This year has been marked by remarkable accomplishments across our classrooms and beyond. Our faculty’s dedication to fostering curiosity and critical thinking has resulted in outstanding academic outcomes, while our students continue to impress us with their creativity, resilience, and leadership. From science fairs to art exhibitions, athletic competitions to community service projects, these achievements reflect the vibrant spirit of our school and the values we hold dear.
Welcoming Our New Head of School
One of the most significant milestones this year is the appointment of Jon Meredith as our new Head of School. Jon brings a wealth of experience in educational leadership and a deep passion for fostering inclusive, innovative learning environments. The Board is confident that Jon’s vision and collaborative approach will strengthen our traditions while guiding us toward an exciting future. Over the coming months, Jon will continue engaging with faculty, families, and students to listen, learn, and build relationships that will ensure a smooth and successful transition. We invite you to join us in warmly welcoming Jon, his wife, Eleanor, and two children, Cecile and Clay, to our community.
Strategic Priorities
The Board remains focused on ensuring that our school not only meets the needs of today but is prepared for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow. To reinforce details from the Fielding article in this issue of The Gateway, over the past several months, we have been laser focused on incorporating the Fielding property into daily
2025-2026 Board of Trustees
James B. Hood '91, Chair
E. Hunter McEaddy Dawson, Vice Chair
David H. Kunes '94, Treasurer
Ann E. Rice Ervin, Secretary
Mark T. Allan
Elliot Grier Allen Sr.
Catherine M. Grant
Joseph J. Keenan
David Maybank III '75
Peter M. McCoy Jr.
Jonathan M. Meredith, Ex-Officio
John E. Robinson
Meredith F. Sharma
Tameka L. Smalls-Robinson
Zoë L. Stephens '87
Board members and CDS leadership socialize before the start of the October Board meeting.
use while we are exploring the historic renovation of the original Fielding building and our pursuit of a master campus plan. Along these lines, we are excited to have enlisted the help of Eddie Fava and his team to help us re-envision the Fielding building in ways that honor the Fielding family, properly restore this historic property in a responsible way that honors the past and provides us with new, modern community spaces. We have also engaged Jay White of Liollio to help us develop a master campus plan. Under our current timeline, we expect to share the full details with our community in January.
Financial Stewardship
As trustees, we take seriously our responsibility to safeguard the financial health of the school. Through careful planning and prudent management, we have maintained a strong fiscal position while continuing to invest in programs that enrich the student experience. Our efforts are greatly enhanced by your generosity. Your commitment to our Gateway Giving last year has allowed our faculty and administration to pursue professional development that brings new ideas and perspectives to each of our classrooms and fosters our faculty’s eagerness to continue learning. We remain committed and focused on ensuring CDS fairly compensates and supports our amazing faculty and staff.
Community Engagement and Partnership
Our school’s strength lies in the partnership between families, faculty, and leadership. The Board is deeply grateful for the trust you place in us and for the countless ways you contribute to our shared mission. Whether through volunteering, attending events, or supporting Gateway Giving, your engagement makes a profound difference. Together, we are building a community where every child feels known, valued, and inspired to reach their fullest potential.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, our vision remains clear: to nurture confident, compassionate learners who are prepared to lead with integrity in an ever-changing world. This vision calls us to innovate boldly while staying true to the traditions that define our school. With your continued support—and under Jon Meredith’s leadership—we are confident that the best chapters of our story are yet to be written.
Thank you for being an essential part of this journey. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I extend my deepest appreciation for your partnership and commitment. Together, we will continue to kindle the fire within each of our students and make CDS a place where excellence and integrity flourish.
Warm regards,
Jamie Hood ‘91 Chair, Board of Trustees
CHARLESTON DAY SCHOOL
New Board of Trustees Members
Mark T. Allan
• Mark is a parent of Amelia (‘29) and two CDS graduates, Halsey (‘25), and Trigg (‘23)
• Graduate of the University of Virginia with a B.A. in History
• Joined Broad Bay Capital in January of 2025 as President/Head of Investor Relations and oversees business development and investor relations at the firm
• Managing Director at New Republic Partners, a multifamily office based in Charlotte, North Carolina, focused on alternative investments from 2022-2024
• Partner and head of trading at Scopia Capital in New York from 2012-2022
• Principal at Clovis Capital from 2002-2012
• Began his alternative investment career at Ridgecrest Partners after working as an overseas trading specialist at Montgomery Securities
• Member of the Benefactors Society Board at UVA
Meredith F. Sharma
• Meredith and her Husband Akhil are parents to Gaurav (‘31) and Rani (‘33)
• Graduate of Washington & Lee University where she earned a double degree (B.S/ B.A) in business, psychology, and German and received a Fulbright scholarship to Germany
• Career in private equity and consulting before pausing to raise her children
• She is happy to keep her skills sharp as she serves on various boards across Charleston including Society1858 and other non-profit volunteer boards
• Past treasurer for the CDS Parents’ Council and leads the cherub choir at First (Scots) Presbyterian Church
Walking Together for a Stronger CDS
On Wednesday, May 14th, the Charleston Day School community laced up their sneakers and came together for the inaugural Celebrate a Scorpion Day and Walk-a-Thon—a celebration of participation and community. The day honored everything that makes CDS such an extraordinary place to learn, grow, and thrive.
Parents, alumni, grandparents, teachers, and students all joined in the fun to make pledges in support of walkers ahead of the event.
On the big day, older grades paired with younger grades to walk together. Each group circled the walk-a-thon track at the Fielding property for about 20 minutes, averaging an impressive 15 laps per student.
The 8th grade class had a special challenge. All pledges the 8th graders received helped support the Class of 2025's gift to the school. The 8th grade group walked an impressive 564 laps. Through this fundraising effort as well as others throughout the year, the group donated a new sandwich bar to the school lunch program for the 25/26 school year.
We look forward to our community coming together again at this year's Celebrate a Scorpion Day. Look for emails and social media posts this spring with information about this community event.
Contact Mary Baarcke in the office of Advancement with any questions or to make a gift to support The Gateway Giving Fund, CDS’ annual fund. Mary.Baarcke@charlestonday.org 843-266-9798.
Total Student Laps Walked: 5,074
Total Red Team Laps: 2,620
Total Blue Team Laps: 2,454
Class with the Most Laps: 3rd grade (757)
Total Donors in 24 Hours: 280 (goal = 250)
Total Amount Raised: $54,410
Support our Scorpions! Scan the QR code to visit our Gateway Giving page and make your gift today!
CHARLESTON DAY SCHOOL
Electronic Annual Report
The CDS Annual Report has gone digital! This allows our information to be more accessible, engaging, and interactive while also reducing costs and environmental impact. Please enjoy it by scanning the QR code below.
This past year, the Charleston Day School community once again demonstrated the extraordinary power of philanthropy. Through the generosity of Scorpion parents, alumni, grandparents, faculty & staff, and friends, we strengthened the foundation that allows every student to thrive. Support to the Gateway Giving Fund increased again over last year, further enabling the school to enrich the classroom and extracurricular experiences, invest in faculty excellence, update campus facilities and technologies, and capitalize on unexpected opportunities.
Charleston Day School
Charleston Day School
Please scan the QR code to view our 24/25 annual report.
Equally inspiring was the breadth of Gateway Giving participation: 708 total donors, 81% parent giving, and 100% giving for both our faculty & staff and the Board of Trustees.
The Fielding Property also received generous gifts to help renovate this historic project. As decisions are finalized in the coming months regarding all that Fielding will offer CDS and downtown Charleston, philanthropy will continue to play a critical role.
Every gift, regardless of size, signals a shared belief in our mission and highlights a community united in purpose and pride. As we reflect on this year of generosity, we sincerely thank all donors and celebrate the impact of their giving.
Charleston Day has always held a special place in my heart. As both an alumna and now a parent, I see every day how this remarkable school continues to inspire curiosity, character, and community. Supporting CDS means ensuring that legacy continues for generations to come.”
–Sarah Rose Johnson ‘01, Current Parent
Spring Cocktail Party
We were thrilled once again to host families and friends of Charleston Day who donated at the 1937 Circle level or above for our Spring Cocktail Party on the CDS rooftop terrace. Thank you to the many current and past parents, grandparents, and community members for their philanthropic support.
Bequests and other planned gifts have a lasting impact on Charleston Day and serve as a continuing source of support. The correct plan balances what you wish to accomplish for yourself, your family and your charitable interests in your overall estate and financial plans. There are innovative and creative ways to include Charleston Day School in your plan. To learn more about giving strategies that allow you to make a meaningful charitable gift, please contact the Advancement Office at 843.266.9798 or Mary.Baarcke@charlestonday.org.
Upcoming Dates to Remember
November 19 Admissions Open House
November 21 K-2 Thanksgiving Programs
November 24-28 Thanksgiving Break (No School)
December 15 Grades 3-5 Holiday Program
December 16 Grades K-2 Holiday Program
December 19 Holiday Break Begins
