STRATEGIC PLAN
2025–2030
CHARTING THE COURSE
for DERBY’S FUTURE
“THE TIME WE HAVE WITH STUDENTS— in the classroom, on the fields and courts, and through our advisory program— paired with professional development like social-emotional learning and executive functioning, allows us to engage deeply with children. We are empowered to guide them academically and in shaping their character; helping them to grow into the best versions of themselves.”
—UPPER SCHOOL MATH TEACHER, CROSS COUNTRY AND BASKETBALL COACH
“DERBY CHANGED MY CHILDREN’S LIVES—
they are better, more well-rounded human beings because of their experience here.”
—CURRENT PARENT
DEAR MEMBERS OF THE DERBY ACADEMY COMMUNITY,
We are proud to share with you the 2025-2030 Strategic Plan: Charting the Course for Derby’s Future. This plan is a roadmap for the coming years and a reaffirmation of Derby’s enduring mission. Throughout Derby’s remarkable history, our community has been defined by a commitment to both mind and heart. We believe that academic excellence and character development must go hand in hand. Guided by this timeless mission and informed by insights from many community members, the Board of Trustees and Leadership Team partnered to craft a strategic vision that builds on our historic strengths while embracing the opportunities ahead.
Our Strategic Plan focuses on four key priorities:
• Elevating the Student Experience and Championing Faculty Excellence
• Telling the Derby Story: Inspiring Both Mind and Heart
• Ensuring Long-Term Financial Health: Fueling Derby’s Mission for Generations to Come
• Shaping the Future of Derby Academy: Campus Renewal
Each of these priorities is essential to ensuring that Derby remains the South Shore’s leading Pre-K–8 independent school, where students are inspired to thrive, grow, and lead. This plan is ambitious and achievable. Together, we will bring this vision to life.
The work ahead is important and inspiring. We invite you to join us on this exciting journey by championing our mission, celebrating our progress, and helping us shape the future of Derby Academy for generations to come.
With gratitude and enthusiasm,
Colleen Ramsden, Ed.D. Head of School
Jeff Camuso President, Board of Trustees
Improve Both Mind and Heart
OUR MISSION
To inspire and foster a foundation for lifelong learning through a focus on improving both mind and heart.
STATEMENT OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
At Derby Academy, we recognize and value the characteristics that contribute to each individual’s full identity, to include race, gender, age, ethnicity, religion, culture, nationality, family structure, language, sexual identity, socioeconomic background, physical differences and learning styles.
Our mission is to cultivate a school community infused with a multiplicity of voices and perspectives. By moving beyond individual experiences, we learn to think critically, adapt, communicate, collaborate, imagine, understand, and grow.
Our goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment where each person freely brings their whole selves to school each day, confident that every individual will be respected.
We believe that being a truly inclusive community requires constant attention, at times involving moments of uncertainty and misunderstanding.
We dedicate ourselves to use conversation as a catalyst for the growth and change we seek.
OUR HISTORY
Founded in 1784 by Sarah Derby as one of the earliest coeducational schools in the country and the oldest coeducational independent school in New England, Derby continues to focus on the ideas of community and generosity, and the vision of providing children with the best education available.
The vision of Sarah Derby has impacted generations of families. Now in its third century of leadership, Derby remains true to its motto: Improve Both Mind and Heart. Dedicated faculty, innovative curricula, and an array of community and leadership opportunities continue to ensure children are supported in their academic and social development, enabling students to become lifelong learners and successful members of their community.
AT DERBY ACADEMY,
WE BELIEVE THAT THE BEST WAY
to honor our legacy is to embrace the future with vision, purpose, and heart.
Rooted in nearly 250 years of educational excellence, Derby stands at a pivotal moment— one that calls us to think boldly, act intentionally, and invest deeply in the people, programs, and places that define our school.
This 2025–2030 Strategic Plan is our blueprint for the road ahead. It reflects the collective wisdom, aspirations, and dreams of our community. Guided by our motto to Improve Both Mind and Heart, this plan outlines four key areas of focus:
1 Elevating the Student Experience and Championing Faculty Excellence
2 Telling the Derby Story: Inspiring Both Mind and Heart
3 Ensuring Long-Term Financial Health: Fueling Derby’s Mission for Generations to Come
4 Shaping the Future of Derby Academy: Campus Renewal
Together, these priorities will position Derby not only to meet the challenges of a changing world, but also to lead with clarity, courage, and conviction.
Elevating the Student Experience and Championing Faculty Excellence
At the heart of Derby Academy is a steadfast commitment to nurturing the whole child—mind and heart. We believe extraordinary student experiences are made possible by extraordinary educators. By fostering meaningful relationships, delivering a dynamic and inclusive program, and supporting every learner with intention and care, we will cultivate a vibrant community where students and educators alike are inspired to thrive.
Enhancing and Celebrating the Derby Pre-K–8 Experience
We will build on Derby’s core strengths to create a joyful, rigorous, and purpose-driven journey for every student.
Expanding Capacity to Empower Every Student to Reach Their Full Potential
We are committed to ensuring that every student has the tools, support, and opportunities to thrive. By embracing each learner’s unique strengths, we will empower them to reach their full potential.
Fueling Excellence in Teaching: Investing in Those Who Inspire
We will continue to invest in, celebrate, and retain the dedicated educators who bring Derby’s mission to life. By fostering a culture of professional growth, collaboration, and recognition, we empower our faculty to thrive—and in turn, inspire our students to do the same.
Telling the Derby Story: Inspiring Both Mind And Heart
As the South Shore’s leading independent Pre-K–8 school, we proudly celebrate Derby’s legacy of excellence while embracing innovation to shape the future. With a deep commitment to developing both mind and heart, we will boldly tell our story—honoring our past, elevating our present, and building a vibrant future for generations to come.
Strategic Marketing & Communications: Amplifying the Derby Difference
We will bring Derby’s mission to life through authentic storytelling. Guided by our motto—Improve Both Mind and Heart—we will implement a dynamic marketing and communications strategy that leverages both trusted channels and emerging platforms.
Enrollment Management: Attracting Families Through Connection and Community
Derby is a community of curious learners and committed families. Through authentic storytelling and deep relationships, we will engage our full community to champion the school and attract exceptional families.
Ensuring Long-Term Financial Health: Fueling Derby’s Mission for Generations to Come
We are deeply committed to long-term financial sustainability. By maintaining a strong foundation and nurturing a culture of giving, we will ensure Derby continues to evolve and meet the needs of students, families, and faculty—today and for generations to come.
Fostering a Culture of Philanthropy
Philanthropy reflects belief in Derby’s mission and the promise of its people. We will cultivate a culture of generosity that invites every community member to help shape Derby’s future.
Investing in Derby’s Future
Now is the time to imagine boldly and invest deeply in Derby’s long-term vision.
Advancing Strategic Priorities
Our financial model must support innovation, sustainability, and every strategic priority.
Ensuring Access to a Derby Education
To remain accessible and competitive, we must address the increasing financial pressures on families.
Diversifying Revenue with Mission-Aligned
Ventures
We will unlock the potential of our campus, community, and brand to generate revenue while deepening our mission impact.
Shaping the Future of Derby Academy: Campus Renewal
The Broad Cove Campus is central to Derby’s educational experience. Our Campus Renewal Plan outlines initiatives that will transform learning environments, enhance our facilities, and align our physical spaces with the school’s mission and future vision.
Inspiring a Unified Vision for Tomorrow
Transformation begins with a shared dream. By uniting our community around a long-term campus vision, we will strengthen our collective identity and clarify our path forward.
Transforming Learning by Redesigning Divisions and Spaces
To meet the needs of today’s learners, we will reimagine our divisions and environments.
Advancing Derby’s Facilities
Derby’s facilities must reflect its mission, inspire its community, and model stewardship.
OUR PROCESS
Derby Academy has embarked on an exciting journey to chart its future through a comprehensive Strategic Plan, created in partnership with John Littleford and Associates, a nationally respected independent school consulting firm. Guided by the NAIS Principles of Good Practice, our Board of Trustees, Head of School, and Leadership Team led a thoughtful, inclusive process that blended vision, collaboration, and community insight.
Our consultant engaged in focus groups with students, parents, alumni, and faculty, listening closely to their ideas, hopes, and perspectives. These conversations ensured that a wide range of voices informed the process. Building on this input, the Board and Leadership Team formed working committees to analyze the findings and shape the priorities that would guide our next chapter.
The resulting Strategic Plan reflects the strength, values, and spirit of the Derby community. It offers a clear, united path forward that protects the school’s long-term vitality, honors our mission, and inspires us to reach for even greater possibilities together.
“DERBY PROVIDES AN ENVIRONMENT THAT FOSTERS
self confidence, community, stewardship, and resilience. I am constantly impressed by the levels of maturity, self-awareness, and academic curiosity exhibited by even the youngest students at Derby. —CURRENT PARENT
“DERBY IMPARTS AN EXCELLENT EDUCATION while providing a warm, welcoming, and safe environment. I love the additional experiences the school offers that make it stand out: arts, theater, public speaking, and emphasis on character. —CURRENT PARENT and enjoys going to school each day. He is happy when I pick him up and has a great balance of academics, arts, and sports with great friendships. —CURRENT PARENT
“MY CHILD IS EXCITED ABOUT WHAT HE IS LEARNING
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