Message from the Interim Head of School

WHEN I JOINED Country Day more than 20 years ago to oversee the financial and operations side of the school, I never thought I would one day serve as your Interim Head of School. But last year, when asked to step up into the role, I saw it as an honor and a privilege to do my part for a school community that has meant so much to me for over two decades.

One of the reasons it was an easy “yes” is because I am surrounded by outstanding and dedicated employees, the very best Administrative Council, and a hardworking and dedicated Board of Trustees. I am particularly leaning on our superb administrative team to help me make good day-to-day decisions. They are all truly professionals in their areas and self-starters who know how to get the job done, and I trust in their leadership to serve our students and community well.

Another reason I am able to serve as your Interim Head and CFO this year is because Country Day is in such a position of strength. The admissions pipeline is stronger than ever, our campus facilities improvements have impacted students and learning in demonstrable ways, and the generous philanthropic support of our community helps us deliver a great educational experience every day.

Even as we face the challenge of another school year managing through the pandemic, we have the technology, talent, and infrastructure to mitigate risk for our students and teachers and keep them in school learning, just as we did last year. Our final major construction project is also on track to open this year. We anticipate the new Performance Gym to be operational in midwinter, and the Klein Aquatic Center to open in the spring.

My job this year is to make sure we don’t lose any ground. As your Interim Head of School, I pledge to you that I will do my very best to serve you well and give my all to deliver the school experience you expect from Country Day. I’m very excited about the appointment of Marcel Gauthier as our next Head of School. He is a proven school leader who fully understands both the academic needs and business needs of a complex school like Country Day. The Administrative Council and I are committed to delivering our mission and ensuring that the school is in great shape for Marcel to lead.

Thank you to everyone who supports Country Day and for your trust and support this year. Together, we can make Country Day the very best it can be for our students.

On the first day of school, David Mancos greeted families, who were excited to be back on campus.

Respectfully,

David Mancos Interim Head of School and CFO