Courtyard 2025 T HE
CONTENTS
HEADMASTER’S LETTER
Back in Session
There is a saying that education is a lifelong journey, but at Dutchess Day School we believe the earliest stages of that journey matter most. The years from
PK through Grade 8 are the most formative in a child’s education. It is during this span that students learn to read and then read to learn. They discover not just facts, but the very skills of how to learn, the foundational and meta-cognitive habits that will serve them for a lifetime.
At DDS, children learn to think critically and analytically, to ask questions, and to search for answers with curiosity and persistence. They grow as collaborators, respecting and embracing differences as the cornerstone of meaningful work with others, and they come to see both success and failure as essential waypoints on the journey of learning. True to our mission, students are encouraged to take intellectual, athletic, and artistic risks while developing independence, confidence, and imagination. Just as importantly, we cultivate compassionate leaders by embedding social-emotional learning throughout the curriculum,
nurturing hearts as well as minds, and connecting students to service opportunities that foster empathy, ethical understanding, and a lifelong passion for community engagement.
While it may sound like hyperbole, this is why Dutchess Day School is the most important school in your child’s development. These years are the root system that will support all future growth, and our dedicated faculty nurture that growth with care, creativity, and purpose every single day.
In the pages that follow, you will see the vibrancy of this PK–8 experience. From classrooms filled with inquiry, to fields and stages alive with energy, to service-learning and outdoor adventures, each moment reflects our mission: to inspire children to be kind, responsible, and true. As you turn these pages, I hope you are reminded not only of the programs and progress of this past year, but of the enduring heart of Dutchess Day School. Write, visit, and connect with DDS, we would love to hear about your family and your life beyond the picket fence. With gratitude and warm regards,
Matthew P. Heard, Head of School
2025-2026
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
John Allen, Vice President
Scott Brien
Michael Burdis
Eliot Clarke ’94
Nicole Drury
Naomi Eldredge
Andrew Garcia
Nancy Hathaway, President
Matthew Heard, Ex Officio
John Hettinger
Patrice King, PA President
Patrick McCurdy
Cindy McWilliams
Jeremy Michael
Reed Minor
Debbie Morley
Jason Page
Heather Patterson
Rebecca Seaman
Oakleigh Thorne ’71
Shannon Vollmer
CONTACT US
Dutchess Day School
415 Route 343
Millbrook, NY 12545
845.677.5014 www.dutchessday.org
ADMISSIONS
Christine Whiting
Director of Admissions & Tuition Assistance
845.677.5014 Ext. 115 twhiting@dutchessday.org
COURTYARD STAFF
Editor in Chief
Matthew Heard
Editors
ML Ball
Tine Whiting
Contributing Writers
Matthew Heard
Pat Stewart
Photographers
Jim Healy
Flynn Larsen
Jen Moriarty
Tine Whiting
Design + Production
Lori Ende-Skidell
Printing Central Press, Millbrook, NY
TUNNELTALK Heard in the Hallways
t CARPET BALL
At DDS we strongly believe that recess is an integral part of a well-rounded education, as well as happy students! Every day during recess, students engage in various outdoor activities, including gaga ball, swings, playground equipment, and the newly added carpet ball games. This daily break provides children with the opportunity to socialize, exercise, and recharge.
tMOVIE NIGHT @ DDS
Our Upper School Student Ambassadors went above and beyond to create a memorable experience for their younger peers in the Lower School, working together to organize a movie matinee, featuring the heartwarming Pixar classic, Ratatouille. The event was complete with popcorn, water, and buddies to cozy up with, making it the perfect way to end a chilly winter week.
Heard in the Hallways
TUNNELTALK
tON GOLDEN POND
Our intrepid 1st graders had an incredible experience during their science class at the pond! With nets in hand, they embarked on a fun adventure to uncover the hidden world of aquatic critters in our very own pond!
tDISSECTING @ DDS
We at DDS pride ourselves with a hands-on science curriculum, offering students engaging opportunities for exploration and experimentation across all grade levels. One highlight was an eye dissection activity that brought together 4th and 7th graders in a collaborative learning experience. The 7th graders demonstrated their expertise and leadership skills, mentoring their younger peers throughout the activity. This inter-grade collaboration reflects our school’s dedication to fostering peer-to-peer learning and growth, creating a dynamic environment where students can thrive.
LATIN ALL STARS
DDS students have access to Latin classes from 6th to 8th grade, along with the option of joining a Latin club during enrichment periods. This year, three exceptional DDS students achieved silver medals in the 2025 National Latin Exam. Alongside over 100,000 students worldwide, these DDS learners demonstrated their mastery of the language and the strength of our school’s commitment to Latin education.
VISITING ARTISTS
Fostering Creative Intelligence
This past May, student singers and instrumentalists from The Millbrook School visited Dutchess Day to share their musical talent. It was inspiring to witness the dedication, passion, and joy they brought to their music. Being part of an ensemble like theirs develops much more than technical skill; it fosters collaboration, active listening, patience, and the ability to connect with others. Experiences like these remind our own upper school ensembles how powerful music can be, not only as an art form but as a valuable way to build community
Natalie Baxter, a talented artist, educator, and parent residing in Wassaic, NY, offers art courses to all ages through her artist-led workshop series, Cottage Crafts, held at Troutbeck. She has exhibited her work internationally and has been featured in such prestigious publications as The New York Times, The Guardian, and The New Yorker. Last fall, Baxter educated our 7th graders about natural dyes. She also led our 2nd graders in a quilting workshop at the Wassaic Project. Through these enriching experiences, students not only learned valuable skills but also had the opportunity to engage with a professional artist who is passionate about sharing her knowledge and love of art with the community.
Erica Recto is an artist, educator, parent, and shop owner. With a background in commercial product and fashion design, she is committed to supporting locally handmade wares and exhibiting artists working at the intersection of contemporary art and craft. In May of this year, Recto showed the upper school how to throw on pottery wheels
here at DDS, and worked with the lower school hand-building clay masks. She offers workshops in a wide range of skills and media for both children and adults at BES, a retail, arts education and exhibition space in Millerton, NY.
VISITING ARTISTS
We were honored to host adolescent development and resilience coaching expert Whitney Ryan for several impactful workshops with faculty, students, and parents. Whitney’s powerful sessions strengthened our community by equipping us with tools and knowledge from her Empower–Act–Thrive framework, enhancing our ability to support students through their formative years. Participants left with practical strategies for immediate application in daily life.
The Strawberry Hill Fiddlers, a talented ensemble of young musicians from Dutchess County high schools, delivered a captivating performance at DDS. Under the guidance of expert string instructor Carole Schaad, their passion and skill were palpably evident. Part of Stringendo, Inc., a non-profit community music school, the Fiddlers teach classically-trained string students how to perform various world fiddling styles by ear. Their technique produces exceptional fiddlers and mesmerizing performances, with their recent DDS appearance an outstanding example.
The 8th grade students had a remarkable opportunity to learn about sound design from renowned industry expert, Michael Klvana. With an illustrious career that includes working with legendary artists such as Billy Joel, Hall & Oats, The Rolling Stones, and Crosby Stills Nash & Young, Klvana’s expertise brought invaluable insights to the classroom as he skillfully integrated analog synthesizers, offering students a hands-on experience in creating unique soundscapes.
Josh Simpson, a professional photographer, educator, and parent based in Wassaic, NY, specializes in architecture, landscape design, and portraiture. His expertise and passion for photography have made him a valuable resource for aspiring young photographers. Simpson shared his work with 7th graders and discussed various professions in photography. Students created their own zines using the “shrimpzine” app. His visit not only inspired our students but also provided them with a hands-on experience in the art of photography.
4th Grade Play
A troupe of energetic 4th grade students captivated audiences with Good Manners: A Medieval Quest for Polite Behavior, an engaging play that transported us to a whimsical medieval kingdom. This educational and entertaining performance highlighted the importance of kindness, respect, and courtesy through the adventures of knights, royalty, and villagers. The production provided valuable social-emotional learning opportunities for students, fostering teamwork, active listening, and empathy. Many discovered new confidence on stage, while others overcame initial nerves to embrace their characters. The play encouraged a supportive environment where students celebrated each other’s talents, resulting in a successful medieval quest both on and off the stage.
6th Grade Play
The 6th grade lit up the stage with their dazzling production of Mary Poppins JR. in November 2024, proving that even with just thirteen cast members, a little magic and a lot of teamwork go a long way! Directed by English teacher Natasha Panzer and brought to life musically by Bill Fiore, the show was a whirlwind of songs, laughter, and bold creativity. From dancing ducks to tapping grannies, the cast embraced the unexpected and had an absolute blast along the way. As they told the heartwarming story of the Banks family and their practically perfect nanny, students grew as collaborators, problemsolvers, and fearless performers. The audience left with smiles on their faces and the joyful reminder that when a job must be done, there’s always room for a spoonful of fun!
8th Grade Play
This May, the 8th graders had the opportunity to study, practice, and perform the music and lyrics of one of this country’s greatest composers, Cole Porter. They stepped into a variety of roles, including ocean liner crew, stockbrokers, mobsters, debutantes, and stage stars, to bring Anything Goes to life. One of the classics of musical theater, the show features standards like“You’re the Top,” “Friendship,” and “I Get a Kick out of You,” and is a subtle satire of America's propensity for turning religion into show business and criminals into celebrities. Although the cast did not get all the jokes at first—none of them had heard of, much less seen, the Yellow Pages—they worked tirelessly to learn lines, songs, and choreography and treated the school community to some fast-paced fun that left many in the audience humming the tunes for days afterward.
The Sound of Music
We offer a variety of ensembles and chorus options for students to explore their creativity and collaborate with their peers, as they engage in movement, improvisation, and composition to deepen their understanding and appreciation of music. Throughout the school year, our talented young performers have the chance to par-
ticipate in recitals and concerts, as well as NYSSMA solo evaluations, further enriching their musical journey and celebrating their achievements. In addition to instilling a love for music in every student, our music program prepares students to become confident life-long musicians and problem solvers.
Where Ideas are Born
Our school’s Design and Innovation Lab empowers students to become creative problem solvers who are technologically savvy and good digital citizens through playful projects and exercises. Design thinking is a problem-solving approach that emphasizes understanding users’ needs, exploring creative solutions, and iterating
through prototypes. It typically involves stages like empathizing, defining, ideating, prototyping, and testing to develop innovative solutions. Students develop essential digital citizenship skills ensuring they become responsible, ethical, and informed users of technology in an increasingly connected world.
CORE PRINCIPLES
CRAFT: Developing your skills and paying attention to detail, making sure your work is of high quality through practice and patience.
COLLABORATION: Working together with others, sharing ideas, and learning from each other to solve problems and create something better as a team.
CRITICAL THINKING: Asking questions, exploring new ideas, and making thoughtful decisions by examining all the possibilities and looking for the best solution.
CREATIVITY: Using your imagination to come up with new and exciting ideas, thinking outside the box, and expressing yourself in unique ways.
TAKE TO THE FIELDS
More Than Just Games
Our inclusive athletic program complements our well-rounded education. Sports help build character, social skills and values, nurturing physical abilities. Our competitive program supports students’ growth, offering various seasonal activities. In lacrosse, both teams were undefeated last spring, highlighting the success of our approach which fosters sportsmanship, teamwork, perseverance and leadership for personal and academic success.
DUTCHESS DAY SCHOOL ATHLETIC TEAMS
Fall Sports
l Cross Country Varsity
l Field Hockey Girls Varsity
l Soccer Boys Varsity / JV
Winter Sports
l Basketball Boys Varsity / JV
l Squash
l Volleyball
l Ski Team
Spring Sports
l Lacrosse Boys Varsity
l Lacrosse Girls Varsity
l Tennis
BEYONDthe FENCEPOST
WASHINGTON, CT As an extension of their classroom learning, our 2nd grade students enjoyed a fascinating field trip to the Institute for American Indian Studies in Washington, CT. This enriching experience allowed them to delve deeper into their study of Native American cultures by encountering firsthand artifacts, exhibits, and demonstrations. The opportunity to engage with history in such a tangible way proved both educational and memorable for our students, fostering a greater appreciation for the diversity and richness of Native American traditions.
IVORYTON, CT
The outdoor adventures of our 5th and 6th grade students at Outdoor Classroom in Ivoryton, CT, were filled with hands-on discovery and meaningful moments of connection. Whether casting lines at dawn on Bushy Hill Pond, building bridges, dissecting sharks, or navigating the woods with map and compass in hand, students leaned into curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving. A visit to Hammonassett Beach and Meigs Point Nature Center offered a perfect blend of exploration and reflection, as students waded through tide pools, examined marine life, and deepened their understanding of coastal ecosystems. Thanks to the thoughtful guidance of our faculty and the support of our parent community, this week was a living expression of DDS’s mission to nurturing confident, compassionate learners who find purpose and joy in their connection to people and place.
BEYONDthe FENCEPOST
SHARON, CT Field trips are an invaluable addition to the DDS curriculum, providing students with enriching, hands-on experiences that complement their in-class learning. In May, our 1st graders visited the Sharon Audubon Center, where they had the opportunity to connect with nature and learn about numerous animals and their habitats. Through interactive activities, the students gained a deeper understanding of the natural world, sparking their curiosity and fostering a love of exploration.
WASHINGTON, DC & GETTYSBURG, VA
Our 7th and 8th grade students embarked on an unforgettable journey to Washington, D.C. and Gettysburg, immersing themselves in history, civic engagement, and the power of reflective learning. From walking the grounds of Gettysburg to standing beneath the towering Lincoln Memorial, our students explored the connections between past and present with curiosity and respect. These experiences brought our mission to life, encouraging students to take healthy intellectual and personal risks, develop empathy and ethical understanding, and see themselves as part of a larger community. We are grateful to the dedicated faculty and supportive parents who made this trip possible, ensuring our students had an opportunity to grow as thoughtful citizens and leaders.
BARTLETT, NH
Our 8th graders embarked on a remarkable journey during their four-day skiing trip, which not only fostered camaraderie and community but also marked a significant milestone as they approached their final term at DDS. The program was an incredible experience for all involved, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for these exceptional students as they continue to grow, learn, and pursue their passions!
Helping Hands
At Dutchess Day School, our commitment to service learning goes beyond the classroom, as we strive to make meaningful impacts in our community and inspire a lifelong passion for engagement and social responsibility in our students.
STEWARDSHIP
KINDERGARTEN
l Morning Attendance
FIRST GRADE
l Used Book Drive for Astor Head Start
SECOND GRADE
l DCSPA Supply Collection
THIRD GRADE
l Thanksgiving Food Drive for Astor Head Start
l Kindergarten Reading Buddies
FOURTH GRADE
l Preschool Gardening Buddies
l Yearly Student-Led Sustainability Fundraising Project
FIFTH GRADE
l Collection for the River Haven Youth Shelter
SIXTH GRADE
l Preschool Reading Buddies
SEVENTH GRADE
l Iron Giraffe Challenge
l First Grade Poetry Pals
EIGHTH GRADE
l Student Leaders
l Second Grade Pen Pals
GRANDPARENTS’ DAY
A Family Affair
Grandparents’ Day at Dutchess Day School is a beloved annual celebration honoring the cherished connection between grandparents and their grandchildren. This special occasion brings joy and warmth to our community as we welcome grandparents to experience the magic of learning alongside their loved ones. Participating in classroom activities, grandparents witness the strong bonds between students, teachers, and peers. The day culminates with shared laughter, camaraderie, and family fun as grandparents and families join our sports teams for games and a delightful BBQ at our Fall Social. Grandparents’ Day truly reflects the significance of family within our school community, and we look forward to cherishing this tradition for years to come.
THE GRADUATES
Class of 2025
As we celebrate our remarkable 8th grade graduates, we cannot help but express our immense pride in their achievements and growth throughout their time at Dutchess Day School. Their resilience, determination, and dedication to learning have laid a solid foundation for their future endeavors. We eagerly anticipate hearing about their high school experiences and have no doubt that this strong, capable class will continue to accomplish incredible things. Congratulations, Class of 2025 we can’t wait to see the impact you will make on the world!
CLASS OF 2025
l Soren Baer
l Blake Bamber
l Theodore Blum
l Cecilia Bull
l Gideon Cappello
l Philip Cohen
l August Donner
l Isabel Drury
l Adolfo Garcia
l Ainsley Hewitt
l Henry Kunkle
l Kitter Martin
l Jake McPhedran
l Nicholas Patterson
l Bodhi Richter
l Anna Chase Ruane
l Ethan Viola
l William Vollmer
l Barry Weeks
l Edward Wilson
BEYOND DDS
A Dutchess Day School education provides our graduates with the capacity to flourish in the most challenging independent and public secondary schools. DDS graduates have received acceptances at the following schools over the last five years:
l Andover
l Arlington High School
l Avon Old Farms
l Baylor School
l Berkshire School
l Blair Academy
l Canterbury School
l Cate School
l Choate Rosemary Hall
l Concord Academy
l Deerfield Academy
l Eaglebrook School
l Emma Willard School
l Frederick Gunn School
l Hackley School
l Highland High School
l Hotchkiss School
l Kent School
l Loomis Chaffee School
l Marlborough School (England)
l Millbrook Central High School
l Millbrook School
l Miss Porter’s School
l Northfield Mount Hermon School
l Oakwood Friends
l Our Lady of Lourdes High School
l Pomperaug High School
l Proctor Academy
l Rhinebeck High School
l St. Andrew’s School
l St. George’s School
l St. Paul’s School
l Salisbury School
l Shorecrest Academy
l Solebury School
l Stevenson School
l Taft School
l Trinity-Pawling School
l Walnut Hill School
l Westminster School
to Action:
THE WORK
OF THE CCI
By Patrick Stewart
AT DUTCHESS DAY SCHOOL , community
is a foundation of how we learn, play, and grow together. Over the past several years, we have listened closely to students, reflected as a faculty, and gathered data to better understand what inclusion looks like and feels like as a community. That work has been carried forward by the Committee for Community and Inclusions (CCI), which has helped us translate reflection into action.
SETTING OUR NORTH STAR
From that starting point, the CCI created and then focused on a simple, but powerful if/then statement: If we co-create shared expectations for relationships and interactions at Dutchess Day School —grounded in the Portrait of a Graduate, supported by clear rubrics, and reinforced through conflict resolution training— then we will cultivate a culture where students work ethically, communicate respectfully, and collaborate across differences.
This shared vision promises better conflict management skills, stronger teamwork, and more equitable participation. By equipping educators with common tools and language, we ensure that DDS is a space for meaningful learning, aligned with our mission and values.
LISTENING TO COMMUNITY, GUIDING OUR WORK
Faculty, students, and community members alike have contributed to this vision. Through empathy exercises, anonymous reflection, Self-Wise testing data, and conversations, students shared moments when they felt included and times when they felt left out.
This data helped faculty generate ideas, all under the board-approved strategic plan’s directive to ‘be a beacon of community and inclusion’.
In that strategic priority, we commit to:
l Forge a community of belonging by celebrating diversity of culture, thought, and perspective.
l Cultivate compassionate leaders through social-emotional learning that nurtures empathy and ethical understanding.
l Serve and connect by deepening service learning and civic engagement.
l Communicate with heart so that every member of our community feels heard, valued, and connected.
These commitments provide the foundation and rationale for our ongoing work, our collective promise to ensure that every child and adult at DDS feels known, needed, and valued. From there, the CCI
group’s charge was to take the ideas generated and move them into practice. In doing so, the group identified potential partners and programs that could align with our goals. This exploration led DDS to Responsive Classroom, an approach that similarly recognizes the connection between social-emotional growth and academic learning.
RESPONSIVE CLASSROOM: A SHARED FRAMEWORK
On August 28, DDS faculty gathered for a full-day workshop with Susan Roser, a Responsive Classroom facilitator. The training affirmed a core belief: when academic and social and emotional skills are integrated, students can thrive.
The day centered on four core domains that are applicable to the classroom, hallways, and playground that are shaping how we teach, connect, and lead:
l Developmentally Responsive Teaching:
Teachers reflected on the principle that children learn best when teaching aligns with their developmental stage. The faculty explored ways to balance challenge with support while encouraging healthy risk-taking in a safe environment.
l Positive Community: Teachers practiced strategies such as energizers and early year approaches for building classrooms where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to contribute-all laying the groundwork for trust and mutual respect.
l Effective Management: The training provided practical tools for creating consistent, predictable routines to maximize learning time and facilitate effective conflict resolution.
l Engaging Academics: Faculty refined their skills to design and deliver high-quality, vigorous, and engaging instruction in ways that are pedagogically sound, student focused, purposeful, and challenging.
Together, these domains are helping DDS move toward a common a more common vocabulary and consistent framework for creating classrooms that are joyful, respectful, and inclusive.
THESE COMMITMENTS PROVIDE THE FOUNDATION AND RATIONALE FOR OUR ONGOING WORK, OUR COLLECTIVE PROMISE TO ENSURE THAT EVERY CHILD AND ADULT AT DDS FEELS KNOWN, NEEDED, AND VALUED.
LOOKING FORWARD
The CCI’s work reminds us that intentionally organizing our practices to promote a sense of belonging for all students is a daily habit. By uniting the voices of students, faculty, and community members, the guidance of our Portrait of a Graduate, and the proven strategies of Responsive Classroom, with the excellence of our teaching faculty, Dutchess Day School is building a culture where every child is known, needed, and valued. As one student reflected, “When I was in 5th grade, I was new to soccer. The rest of the team made me feel included and a true part of the team. Walking on that field to play soccer for the first time, I had no doubt in my mind that I was not very good, but everyone I was with, whether it be the coach(es) or the players, made me feel like I was a real part of the team.” Whether on the sporting field, in the classroom, the studio, or anywhere on campus, that willingness to take on a new challenge within a feeling of belonging is at the center of our work. Those opportunities for our students are what the Committee for Community and Inclusion seeks to ensure every day, for every child.
PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION
Behind the Scenes
PA EVENTS
Back to School Social
School Pictures
Baking Committee
Fall Social
Seasonal Decorations
Book Fair
Spring Social
Movie Night
Weekly Walks & Meditation
Book Club
OFFICERS
President: Patrice King P’29, ’22
President-Elect: Dana Kurz ’31, ’33
Secretary: Katharine Lucic ’34
MEETINGS
All parents are members of the PA and included in the monthly meetings held on campus.
PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION
The Parents’ Association of Dutchess Day School is an organization of current parents and legal guardians that assists the Head of School on non-academic matters and seeks to establish and maintain close cooperation between parents, students, faculty, administration, staff, and trustees in promoting the welfare of the school and its students. The activities of the parents’ association (PA) include (but are not limited to) fall and spring socials, the book fair, the skating party, and bake sales. The organization meets between six and eight times during the academic year.
NEW TRUSTEES
On Board
We are pleased to welcome our new board members for the 2025-26 school year. Our existing board is full of gratitude to be able to work alongside these new members and build lasting growth for our Dutchess Day community.
OAKLEIGH THORNE
Oakleigh Thorne (DDS ’71) grew up on his family’s farm next to the Village of Millbrook in the 1960s and ’70s and attended Dutchess Day School from Kindergarten through 8th grade, during which he actually boarded at the school.
He is married to another DDS grad, Jacqueline Stahl Thorne (DDS ’98). They live in Amenia with their two children, William (DDS ’31) and Blake (DDS ’34).
Oakleigh graduated from Milton Academy in 1975, received a B.S. in Journalism from Boston University in 1980, and an MBA from the Columbia University Graduate School of Business in 1986. He worked as a newspaper reporter at both the Boston Globe and the Baltimore News American before attending graduate school. Additionally, he has served as CEO of three public companies: Commerce Clearing House, Inc. (1986-1996; CEO 1995-1996), eCollege.com, Inc. (2000-2007), and Gogo, Inc. (2018 – 2024) where he still serves as chairman of the board. In 1996, he founded Thorndale Farm, Inc., the Thorne family office, and still serves as CEO.
Oakleigh serves on many non-profit boards, including the Millbrook Community Partnership (president),
The Millbrook Youth Hockey Association, the Dutchess Land Conservancy (vice chair), the Millbrook Hunt (president), the Millbrook Tribute Garden (president), and the Columbia Business School Board of Overseers. He has also served on the board at DDS.
Oakleigh is a hockey fan and a retired polo player who enjoys fishing with his kids, wing shooting, and fox hunting.
MICHAEL BURDIS
Michael and his wife, Emily, were married in 1984 and moved to Salt Point where they still reside. They have three children—Gordon, Joseph, and Nell— all of whom attended Dutchess Day School before going on to Millbrook School, Forman School, and then college.
Michael earned a B.S. in Engineering from Cornell University and an MBA from Duke University; Emily received a B.A. from Yale University. Michael has been employed at James L. Taylor Mfg., Poughkeepsie since 1978. Prior volunteer activities include Vassar Brothers Hospital, Vassar Warner Home, WMMA (industry association), Dutchess Day School, Forman School, and Millbrook Golf & Tennis Club.
OAKLEIGH THORNE and his family
MICHAEL BURDIS
NEW AT DDS
Heads of Class
Welcome to our new faculty and staff members for the 2025-26 school year. Our classrooms are vibrant, our students are eager to learn, and our new additions here at DDS are excited to be part of a nurturing environment.
KATIE HALL, DDS Lower School Science teacher
KATIE HALL
Lower School Science
Katie is thrilled to be joining the Dutchess Day School community as the Lower School Science teacher. She holds a master’s degree in teaching from Northwest University and brings several years of classroom experience to her position. Previously, Katie taught 4th grade at a Catholic school in Seattle for four years and spent last year as a substitute teacher at DDS.
Originally from the Boston area, Katie spent 13 years there before moving to Seattle with her family for 14 years. Two years ago, she relocated to New York to be closer to her extended family. She is eager to share her passion for scientific exploration with her students, having particular interests in ocean studies, animal adaptations and habitats, and weather systems.
Outside of the classroom, Katie enjoys crafting, particularly quilting and crochet, as well as horseback riding, attending concerts, and spending time with family and friends. Her love of animals also plays a big role in her life; she has a Labradoodle named Tuck, a cat named Marely, and a Friesian horse named Beauty. Fun fact: her twin brother, Jameson Hall, will be teaching fifth grade at DDS.
Katie feels incredibly grateful to be part of the DDS faculty and is looking forward to an engaging year of exploration in science with her students.
CLAUDIA KUNKLE, Director of Development
CLAUDIA KUNKLE
Director of Development
Claudia has been a dedicated member of the DDS community since 2016 when her oldest son started Kindergarten here. Over the years, she has contributed to the school in numerous volunteer positions including Class Representative, Parent Association Secretary, Parent Association President, Events Chair, and most recently, Trustee.
Her deep commitment to DDS is also personal—her oldest son
LAMPING, DDS Pre-K teacher
graduated in the Class of 2025, and her two younger children are still enjoying their time at the school.
Before her involvement at DDS, Claudia spent over a decade working in investment banking at a global firm in New York City. She brings to her new role a strong professional background, appreciation for community building, and a genuine love for Dutchess Day school.
Claudia lives in Millbrook, NY with her husband, three sons, and two dogs. She is excited to
begin her work as Director of Development and looks forward to contributing in a meaningful way to the future of DDS.
JENNIFER LAMPING
Pre-K
Jennifer is excited to join Dutchess Day School as a member of the Pre-K team, after serving last year as a substitute teacher/teaching assistant at DDS. Her experience in the classroom reaffirmed her passion for working with children and inspired her to pursue this next chapter.
JENNIFER
A graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas College with a degree in Marketing, Jennifer began her professional career in Public Relations and Development, working for more than a decade with local nonprofit organizations.
Stepping away from the workforce to raise her children, Melissa has remained engaged in her community, both as a volunteer coach in youth sports and a dedicated Religious Education teacher at her parish.
Jennifer’s greatest joy is her family. She and her husband Richard live in Stanfordville with their four children—Richie, Hailey, Stella, and Cayden—and their beloved beagle, Maddie.
Whether on the sidelines of a sporting event or cheering from the audience, Jennifer is happiest showing her enthusiasm and support for her four children in everything they do.
Thrilled to be part of the Dutchess Day School community, Jennifer is looking forward to an enriching and joyful school year with her students and coworkers.
MICHELLE OCASIO
Spanish
Michelle is excited to join the Dutchess Day School community as the new Spanish teacher. With family roots in Puerto Rico, Michelle was raised in the Brooklyn/Queens area of New York City and grew up bilingual in Spanish and English.
She spent her childhood summers in Puerto Rico with her family, and now as an adult, she continues that tradition with her own family. Growing up in such a diverse community also fostered her deep appreciation for languages and cultures.
Michelle holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood studies and has more than 14 years of experience working with children, including as a caseworker for foster children
NEW AT DDS
and a classroom teacher.
Outside of teaching, Michelle enjoys spending time with her daughter, Estelia, her husband, and their dog, Bonnie.
She loves being outdoors— whether walking, hiking, or swimming—and has a passion for cooking and trying new foods. She believes that quality family time is the foundation of happiness.
Michelle is thrilled to begin her journey at Dutchess Day School and looks forward to sharing her love of the Spanish language and culture with her students.
MELISSA VANDEWATER
Assistant Teacher—1st Grade
Melissa is a lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley and a graduate of Arlington High School in LaGrangeville. She went on to earn a bachelor's degree in early childhood education from the College of Saint Rose (2003), followed by a master’s degree in educational psychology (2005).
In addition to her academic and professional achievements, Melissa has dedicated significant time to raising her four children (including a set of triplets!),
MICHELLE
OCASIO, DDS Spanish teacher
AT DDS
Faculty Ne ws
2025
ALL the BEST to DDS NEWLYWEDS
Dutchess Day’s Head of Upper School PAT STEWART married DEVANDRIA BERNARD
MARCH 15, 2025
WELCOME to the DDS CLASS of 2040
DDS First Grade Teacher JACKIE BROWN gave birth to REILLY JUNE KIMBERLY AUGUST 20, 2025
an experience that has further deepened her understanding of child development and education. In recent years, she has returned to the classroom, working as a substitute teacher in the Millbrook Central School District, including as a Kindergarten leave replacement and roles in Special Education.
Melissa has also worked at the Millbrook Early Childhood Education Center (MECEC), gaining valuable experience in early childhood instruction.
Now, with her children thriving and growing, Melissa is excited to pursue a full-time teaching role within the Dutchess Day School community.
MELISSA VANDEWATER, DDS Assistant 1st Grade teacher
NEW
Beyond the Picket Fence
Share it here—college destinations, graduations, new jobs, births, passings, marriages and more. The entire DDS community enjoys hearing what our alumni are up to. Please send your submissions to alumni@dutchessday.org.
2000
Following graduation from DDS, Dhruv Singh attended Choate Rosemary Hall, followed by Harvard University. He worked as a consultant at McKinsey & Co in New York, and for the past 15 years has been an entrepreneur and investor via his firm, DEWS Holdings, through which he has founded four companies and invested in dozens of others.
Dhruv and his wife Liz (who is also an entrepreneur!) live in Tuxedo Park, NY with their three children: Emilia (5),
Serena (3), and Cosimo Singh (1). Outside of the private sector, Dhruv is/ has been an advisor to Peepul and GiveDirectly, a member of the Advisory Council of the Harvard Kennedy School Mossavar-Rahmani Center for Business and Government, and a term member of the Council on Foreign Relations. He is also a member of Congressional Country Club, The Tuxedo Club, and Harvard Club.
Ryan Ruocco expressed his desire to be a sportscaster even while at DDS.
Today, he serves as a television and radio announcer for the NBA, WNBA, and women’s college basketball on ESPN, and for the New York Yankees and Brooklyn Nets on YES Network. Ryan is married to his wife Andrea, and together they have a daughter (Everly, 4) and a son (Remy, 1). Following graduation from DDS, Ryan attended Hackley School and Fordham University.
2002
Dr. Neeraj Hotchandani is a primary care physician and founder of QualCare, a multi-specialty healthcare practice with offices in
Fishkill and Poughkeepsie. He is married to Preeti Bhattacharji, an Adjunct Professor at Columbia University and Head of Sustainable Investing at JP Morgan Private Bank. Together they are the proud parents of Riyaan (3) and Amara (1). After DDS, Neeraj attended Millbrook School, Bates College, and SUNY Downstate College of Medicine.
2015
Annabelle Duval has been working for the U.S. Attorneys’ Office in the Eastern District of New York as a Paralegal in the Civil Division and will attend Stanford Law School in the fall.
2016
Olivia Charles founded Veridocx, an AI-powered regulatory intelligence platform helping medical device startups navigate the complex FDA 510(k) process. By aggregating and analyzing regulatory data, her company provides early-stage companies with strategic insights that are typically only accessible through expensive consulting— making compliance faster, more transparent, and more accessible for innovators.
It’s been a fast-moving year for Olivia. Veridocx
DHRUV SINGH, 2000 and family
has been accepted into several highly competitive health innovation accelerators, is establishing partnerships with research institutions and regulatory testing labs, and has secured initial funding to build and scale its platform. Also, the company is currently in the process of raising its seed round, which will allow it to expand its technology and reach even more companies at the earliest, most critical states of their development.
Olivia is also pursuing a master’s degree in the Translational Research Program at the University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine. The Program’s focus is on bridging research, commercialization, and real-world impact, which has been invaluable in shaping both the business strategy and the vision for transforming how regulatory compliance
is approached in the medical device sector.
Olivia is excited to continue building tools that help bring life-changing healthcare technologies to market.
2017
Emma Schaad, a proud member of the Wake Forest University Class of 2025, recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in Education. She earned magna cum laude honors, placing in the top 10% of her class—an achievement that reflects her dedication and academic excellence.
During her time at Wake Forest, Emma was inducted into several prestigious honor societies, including Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology; Mortar Board National College Senior Honor Society; and Delta Alpha Pi Honor Society. These
recognitions highlight her commitment to scholarship, leadership, and inclusion throughout her undergraduate career.
Katherine Duval recently graduated from Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida. She loves Florida and has decided to stay there. She is working at Wild Space Gallery, an art gallery founded by the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation and located in the Warehouse Arts District of St. Petersburg. As an extension of the Foundation, the Gallery advances awareness of conversation issues within the state of Florida.
Gigi Goldfischer graduated from Brown University with honors in Psychology and induction into Phi Beta Kappa. Now, she is embarking on a new adventure on the West Coast,
where she has joined the PAU-Stanford PsyD Consortium to pursue her doctorate in clinical psychology.
2020
Emmeline Heaney graduated from Interlochen Arts Academy this year with high honors in theatre. There she founded and led the school’s first improv club, otherwise known as “Just Kidding,” for which she organized performances for the entire student body. She is now pursuing her artistic goals abroad and will begin her M.A. (Honours) in Film Studies at the University of St Andrews in Scotland this fall. Emmeline looks forward to beginning the school year at St Andrews and plans to stay active in theatre!
Molly McConville graduated from Stevenson School in Monterey, CA
ALUMNI NEWS
GIGI GOLDFISCHER, 2017
RYAN RUOCCO, 2000
Featured Alumna
SALLY HAYES ’21
Sally Hayes’s journey reflects the very heart of the Dutchess Day School’s vision: a place where children flourish in learning, develop in character, and find purpose and meaning in their connection to people and place.
During her years at the School, Sally was encouraged to think critically, engage with curiosity, and take ownership of her learning. She was part of a community that valued thoughtful reflection, supported one another, nurtured and recognized the importance of both personal growth and shared responsibility. These early and poignant experiences laid the foundation for the remarkable path she would take.
During her high school years at The Loomis Chaffee School, Sally built on that foundation with purpose and action. As a freshman, she submitted a successful grant proposal to plant trees that would support the school’s bee hives—an initiative that connected her with an international bee expert and sparked a lasting commitment to environmental stewardship. It was the first of many efforts that demonstrated both initiative and a deepening sense of responsibility to the world around her.
Throughout high school, Sally distinguished herself as a leader in environmental and academic circles alike. She earned the J. Newfield Senior Science Prize, one of Loomis’s highest honors, and led efforts to certify the school as a Level 1 Arboretum. She was awarded a Norton Fellowship to design and lead an environmental education program for young children and completed the school’s Global and Environmental Studies Certificate program.
As an e-proctor during her sophomore and senior years, Sally helped promote sustainability across campus through education and action—organizing recycling initiatives, raising awareness of eco-friendly practices, and encouraging her peers to think about their impact on the environment and the community.
At every step, the values nurtured at DDS shone through Sally’s work. She approached challenges with thoughtfulness, engaged with others with empathy, and pursued learning not only for achievement but also for meaning.
Sally Hayes’s story is one of growth rooted in purpose—and a powerful example of what’s possible when students are supported in becoming not just strong learners, but thoughtful, connected individuals. Her journey continues to inspire—and it all began at Dutchess Day School. Keep up the great work, Sally!
SALLY HAYES, 2021
where she played four years of varsity tennis, soccer, and track and was one of the heads of the Green Key Ambassadors. She is now attending Loyola Marymount University studying Film and Political Science with a pre-law academic focus. Molly still finds time to play club tennis and soccer, however. Last November, she worked at The Thomas and Dorothy Leavey Center for the Study of Los Angeles (StudyLA) at LMU and enjoyed making calls to inform voters about elections. This semester, Molly hopes to work with LMU alumni as a student philanthropy officer.
2021
Sutter Schwartz recently graduated from Millbrook School where he was an All-School Prefect, captain of the varsity squash and tennis teams, and head curator at the Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo. He also played varsity soccer and served as a dorm leader.
Sutter will be taking a gap year to attend an international tennis academy in Velencia, Spain before heading to Cornell University in Fall 2026. This past summer, he was a tennis pro and camp counselor at Millbrook Golf & Tennis Club.
2022
Marshall McConville has been attending the Baylor School in Chattanooga, TN as a Cartter Scholar boarding student since 9th grade. He’s excited for his senior year and has enjoyed making friends from
different countries and running, setting four school records in the 1600m, 3200m, 4x800m, and DMR (Distance Medley Relay). Marshall is a twotime Nike Nationals qualifier, New Balance Nationals qualifier, four-time All State and the State Runner-up in the 2 mile, 1600m (4:08) and 3200m (8:55).
2024
Emelia Banta is preparing to begin her sophomore year at Millbrook School after having a rewarding and memorable freshman year. From the excitement of new beginnings to the comfort of familiar friendships from DDS, her first year of high school was filled with growth, accom-
plishments, and strong ties to her DDS foundation. Staying connected with friends from DDS helped make the transition to boarding school smoother and she credits these friendships, as well as the strong academic and social skills learned at DDS, for helping her feel confident and prepared. Athletically, Emelia achieved a major milestone by earning a spot on the varsity girls tennis team as the only freshman! Academically, she especially enjoyed courses in Global Geography and Darkroom Photography, where the study habits and curiosity nurtured at DDS continued to serve her well—especially during exam season.
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ALUMNI NEWS
Members of the class of 2024 meet up at the Dutchess County Fair, left to right: Emily Brien, Arianna Lombardo, Jack Perkins, Miles Stylman, Theo Stylman, Lucas Pelosi, Emelia Banta, Jules Siepp
FY2025
Dear Parents, Alumni, Grandparents, Faculty & Friends of DDS,
I am deeply grateful and excited to share that the Dutchess Day Fund has reached another milestone— nearly $350,000 raised during the 2024-2025 giving season. This achievement reflects the generosity and commitment of parents, alumni and their families, grandparents, friends, faculty and staff.
The Dutchess Day Fund provides essential, unrestricted support for every facet of the school’s operations. Its impact is felt daily in the enriched experiences of our students and their teachers. Your continued support ensures the strength and future success of Dutchess Day School.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, thank you for being an essential part of the DDS community.
Sincerely,
Cindy McWilliams Trustee, Chair Development Committee Past Parent, Trevor ’97
DUTCHESS DAY SCHOOL MISSION…
IN AN ATMOSPHERE OF TRUST & MUTUAL RESPECT:
Students are encouraged to take intellectual, athletic, and artistic risks and to develop Independence, confidence, and imagination. Students share their talents through collaboration and through service to the school, the community, and the larger world.
Annual Report FY2025
BY AMOUNT
TOWER HOUSE
$20,000+
Emilie Dyson
Nancy Hathaway
Jeremy & Joyann Michael
Jennifer Speers ’67
Oakleigh ’71 & Jacqueline Thorne ’98
FOUNDERS’ SOCIETY
$15,000+
David & Barbara Krell
Starlie & Jilian Diamant
HERITAGE SOCIETY
$10,000+
Jason & Amy Hart
The Marsal Family
LEADERSHIP SOCIETY
$5,000+
Michael Barnello & Eliza Thorne ’91
Perrin Berkey
Francesca & Michael Donner
William & Brenda Dreyer
John & Kathy Galligan
The Hettinger Family
Michael & Carol Lynch
Thomas & Gael Mallouk
Jackie Montfort
Jason & Mary Elizabeth Page
Heather & George Patterson
Felicitas Thorne
Colleen & Glenn Weinrich
James & Amelia Wilson
HEADMASTER’S SOCIETY
$3,000+
Anonymous (3)
Brazell Family
Scott & Kristi Brien
David & Julia Descoteaux
Jeanne & Damian Gutierrez
Bradley Hathaway ’96
Christopher Hathaway ’98
Elizabeth & Will Hewitt
Erin Holder
Michael P. Kozek & Nichole
H. Silverman
Patrick & Christine McCurdy
Illiana van Meeteren
Steven & Michelle Nielsen
Helen Page
Matthew Pomykala & Elizabeth Williams
Bryan & Tricia Rexhouse
BLUE & WHITE CLUB
$1,000+
Anonymous (2)
Susan Abu-Haidar
John Allen & Christine Wagner
Willy & Byron Anderson
Gabe Bassin & Allie Canton
Ruthie Bontecou
Bartle & Claudia Bull
Clark & Whitney Bullock
Michael & Emily Burdis
David Cohen & Susan Hecht
Larry Cohen ’74
William & Jenny Colman
FY2025
Annual Report
Peter & Lillian Corbin
Alvaro & Veronica Da Silva
Sandra DeRoulet
Starlie & Jillian Diamant
Dana & Nicole Drury
Ben & Naomi Eldredge
Massimo & Chiara Ferragamo
Dr. Caroline Salas-Humara, David Fields
Edward & Dallas Gilpin
Paul W. Harney
Matthew & Laura Heard
Michael & Sandra Hecht
Robert Hettinger
Charlotte Greenough
Dr. Lawrence Kramer & Prof. Nancy Leonard
Tate & Claudia Kunkle
Evan & Dana Kurz
Oliver Lordonnois & Rima Farah
Christopher & Claire Mann
Richard & Cynthia McWilliams
Kevin & Karly Olivieri
Gregorio & Norah Sullivan Quinn
Anna Wei & David Richter
Paul & Amanda Ruane
Rebecca & Bryant Seaman
Natalie Baxter & Josh Simpson
Clinton Smullyan & Catherine Kinsey
David & Sarah Stack
Nancy & Bill Stahl
Shannon & Jeff Vollmer
Khosrow & Sheila Vosoughi
Charles & Hester Weeden
FRONT GATE CLUB
$500+
Anonymous (3)
Emily Allen
Candy & Lex Anderson
Wasik & Zainab Ashraf
Noah & Barrie Blake
Richard Blum & Dorothea Herrey
Timothy Bontecou
Drew & Linda Casertano
BY AMOUNT
Ann Stettner Charles & Neil Charles
R. W. Ciferri III
Farnham & Anne Collins
David & Elaine Crauer
Davis Family
Matt & Jessica Deister
Jon & Erin Downs
Lorrie & Jack Egan
Fatimah & Ray Fakhoury
Peter Greenough & Christine Bates
Alain & Elizabeth Monroe
JunJun Li
Ben & Jessica Metcalf
Stephen & Reed (Weeden)
Minor
Christopher & Debbie-Ann Morley
Alfred & Istar Mudge
Robert & Ilana Nilsen
Charles & Barbara Pierce
Phillip & Alison Rivers
Michelle & Josh Schwadron
John Schwartz & Irene Hong
Russell Seymour & Alysia Baker
Jodi & Christopher Spitler
Vincent & Gabrielle Vallarino
TIGER CLUB
$250+
Anonymous (4)
Emily Abrahams
Bob & Laura Allen
Nelson B Arnstein MD
The Banta Family
Louise Baudoin
David & Margaret Bova
Dr. Hal Buch & Lisa Bare
Sara & Neil Carty
Sarah Buttrick & Hugo Cassirer
James Constantino
John S Cooke & Gretchen
Cooke
Russell Frehling & Debra Blalock
Dr. & Mrs. Goodman
Jameson Hall
Hartmann-Lewis Family
Dr. Thomas Kunkle
Deane & Judy Leonard
Ruth McEathron
Matthew & Ashley Mitchell
Emily Rothschild & Jonathan Retseck
Todd & Janette Ritter
Ted Russin & Karen
Parsons Russin
Jeffrey Smith &
Sarah MacWright
Ashley & Andrew Spence
John Sprague
Steven ’84 & Janelle Styles
John Tuke & Leslie Farhangi
Lilly & Andrea Venezia
Julia Verlaine
George T. Whalen, Jr.
Thomas & Carey Whalen
Bud & Susie Wilson
Jeffrey Zelevansky & Jennifer Coon
FENCEPOST CLUB UP TO $250
Anonymous (9)
Redmond & Annemarie Abrams
Zoe Anderson ’99
Simon Arnstein
Alexander Bancroft
Phebe Banta
Kim Barone
Diana Bessteiro
James Birdsall
Jean Bray
Alexandra Brodsky
Jackie Brown
Karen Canton
We are grateful for the generous gifts made IN HONOR OF the following:
IN HONOR OF FROM
Geneieve & William
Nick Taketa
The Vollmer & Allen Families
Charlotte Greenough
Patti & Richard Taketa
Lorrie & Jack Egan
We gratefully acknowledge gifts made IN MEMORY OF the following individuals:
IN MEMORY OF FROM
James C. Sullivan
Norah Sullivan-Quinn & Greg Quinn
John Longstaff (Teacher / Chess Team Coach) Nelson Arnstein
Bonnie Meagher
Judith Swatland Leonard
Arthur Nagle
Sally Follansbee
Deane & Judy Leonard
Patrick & Devandria Stewart
FY2025
Annual Report
Dr. Robert Carpenter
Alex & Renee Casertano
Elizabeth Chamberlin ’15
Michael Chamberlin & Margaret O’Brien
Elizabeth Clifton
Matilda & Jerome Cohen
Samuel Cohen & Ana Dow Silva
Chris & Deborah Colandrea
Barbara Colman
Parker Corbin
Tyler & Sally Dann
Russell Day & Martha Jercinovich
Mary DeGennaro
Jay DeStefano & Tracey Timson
Sandy & Bob Diamond
Mark & Vicki Doyle
William & Patricia Elkington
Bill Fiore
Lynne Flanagan
Kristen Fuss
Doris Wexler Haas
Collin Harding
Susanna Hill
Anne Jacobsen
Ellen Jones
Nicholas Kinsey
Michael & Joy Klvana
William Landale & Annabelle McBride
BY AMOUNT
Peter & Jane Lascala
Antoine Lefort & Amandine Noca
Ashley E. Lempka
Luka & Katharine Lucic
Kathleen McCurdy Yolanda Mitchell
Natasha Panzer
Richard & Nancy Pelletier
Sabrina Polini
ENDOWMENT
Anonymous (3)
Amanda & Paul Ruane
Claudia & Tate Kunkle
Heather & George Patterson
Jim & Amelia Wilson
Lou & Candace Lewis
Patrick & Devandria Stewart
Perrin Berkey
Shannon & Jeff Vollmer
The Schwery Family
Will & Elizabeth Hewitt
William & Brenda Dreyer
Megan Pope
Drs. Steven & Priscilla Price
Judy Purcell
Jessie Martin & Joe Raciti
Anita Ruane
Kenneth & Cynthia
Schneider
Carmen Nicole Smith &
Zachary Schwartzman
The Schwery Family
Eileen Shaw
Varfee & Mawah
Camara-Sheirf
Virgel Shook
Karen Hansen Simon
Christopher Spitler & Jodi Erlandsen
Morgan Stewart
Patrick & Devandria
Stewart
Alona Strait
Patricia & Richard Taketa
Peter & Anna Tcherephine
Nancy Viola-Garrison
David & Christine Whiting
Barbara Whittaker
Trevor McWilliams
Melissa Wolfmann
Brian & Kimberly Yarnell
IN KIND
Zachary Morris & Jacqueline Sendra Morris
Emily Salvator
Norah Sullivan Quinn
Rima Lordonnois
Charlotte Greenough
Alison Bensimon
The Heaney Family
The list of donors has been compiled and checked with care. Every effort has been made to assure the records are complete and accurate. If an error has been made, please contact the Development Office and accept our apology.
Donor names may be listed in more than one category.
2025/TUITIONPLUS
For almost 70 years, Dutchess Day School has encouraged students to take intellectual, athletic, and artistic risks and to develop independence, confidence, and imagination. Today, the School stands as an exemplar of independent school institutions, balancing the importance of a warm and nurturing environment with the value of a rigorous educational program. It is a truly remarkable independent school institution. At Dutchess Day, each family plays an integral role in the school’s community, actively supporting the school’s mission, values, and educational program, and are partners in ensuring its financial stability. As an independent school and 501c3, Dutchess Day operates differently from public institutions.
Cost
Q: Why must money be raised every year in addition to tuition?
At Dutchess Day, tuition covers a significant portion of the cost of education, but it does not account for the full expenses associated with providing students with a top-notch educational experience. To bridge the gap between tuition income and operating expenses, the school depends on the Dutchess Day Fund and various fundraising activities. These additional sources of revenue are essential for enhancing the school’s programs, supporting faculty development, and maintaining the campus and facilities. Annual giving goes directly into the school’s operating budget which primarily includes expenses related to teacher salaries, educational materials, and the upkeep of the school grounds and buildings.
Q: How much does it cost to educate students at public schools?
In comparison to local public schools, which typically report spending between $28,728 per student, Dutchess Day’s annual expenditure per student is approximately $32,095. This investment reflects the school's commitment to providing a high-quality (hands on) experiential education, maintaining smaller class sizes, and offering a range of resources and extracurricular opportunities to each student.
Q: How does Dutchess Day maintain a balanced budget?
The combination of tuition and generous
contributions to the Dutchess Day Fund is vital in covering the school’s annual operating budget. Without the additional financial support from donors, the school would not be able to maintain its current level of excellence and continue offering the diverse array of programs, activities, and resources that make Dutchess Day such an outstanding and thriving educational community.
Q: Why is Dutchess Day called an “independent school”?
As an independent school, Dutchess Day has the flexibility to develop and implement its own unique programs, ensuring that its curriculum remains dynamic and responsive to students’ needs. Operating with limited financial support from local or state taxes, the school relies on various sources of income, including tuition, endowment earnings, annual contributions, and fundraising initiatives. Dutchess Day is governed by a Board of Trustees, allowing it to maintain autonomy from local school boards and to truly prioritize the needs of its students and families.
Annual Fund
Q: What is the Annual Fund (DDF)?
The Dutchess Day Fund (DDF) serves as a crucial vehicle for members of the school community to make tax-deductible contributions toward new and existing programs at Dutchess Day. Each fall, the Director of Development, Development Committee, and parent volunteers reach out to trustees, parents, past parents, grandparents,
alumni/ae, faculty, staff, and friends, encouraging them to contribute. This high level of engagement and support not only helps to fund the school’s innovative programs but also strengthens its position when applying for grants from foundations. Contributions to the DDF are accepted between July 1 and June 30 each year.
Q: How much should I give?
Every gift, large or small is appreciated. The consistent generosity of committed parents, alumni/ae, trustees, past parents, grandparents, friends, staff, and faculty forms the backbone of the Dutchess Day Fund’s success. Through their annual gifts, these dedicated individuals help to maintain the school’s financial health and provide essential resources for the growth and development of the school’s programs, facilities, and opportunities. The continued support of these loyal donors is integral to ensuring that Dutchess Day remains a leader in elementary education and a source of pride for its entire community.
Q: What is a matching gift?
Many employers offer matching gift programs, which can double or even triple the impact of a donor’s contribution to Dutchess Day School. The Development Office is available to provide information and assistance in determining whether an individual’s employer offers such a program, as well as to guide donors through the process of securing a matching gift. Donors are encouraged to explore this option as a way to maximize their support for the school and its mission.
Friends & Fundraising
Q: Why does Dutchess Day hold fundraising events?
In addition to the Dutchess Day Fund, the Parent Association and Development Office work together to organize various events throughout the year. These events serve as excellent opportunities for members of the Dutchess Day community to socialize, engage in “friend” raising, and support the school’s activities. The Parent Association also offers numerous volunteer opportunities, allowing parents to actively participate in and contribute to the school’s programs. This collaboration not only strengthens the Dutchess Day community but also enhances the educational experience for students and families alike.
Endowment Giving
Q: What is an endowment?
Endowment funds are components of Dutchess Day’s long-term financial strategy. Much like a savings account, endowment funds generate income through strategic investments, with part of this income being allocated toward annual operating expenses. By maintaining and growing a strong endowment, the school can supplement its operating budget and mitigate the need for substantial tuition increases. A healthy endowment ensures that Dutchess Day remains financially secure and able to provide the best possible education for its students, both now and in the future.
Q: Does Dutchess Day School have an endowment?
Although the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) advises that a school’s endowment should be equivalent to one to two times its operating budget, Dutchess Day’s endowment is currently relatively small. To date, the school has prioritized fully funding capital projects and maintaining a debt-free operating status. However, with a stable financial foundation now in place, Dutchess Day recognizes the importance of building invested capital and is committed to increasing its endowment in the coming years.
Capital Giving
Q: What is capital giving?
As part of its ongoing efforts to amplify the educational experience for students, Dutchess Day occasionally identifies large-scale building projects or programs that require significant financial resources. In these cases, the Head of School and Board of Trustees work together to secure major gifts from donors who may choose to spread their contributions over multiple years. This flexibility allows donors to make a meaningful impact on the school’s development while managing their financial commitments in a way that best suits their circumstances.
Q: How is that different from annual giving?
It is important to note that the Dutchess Day Fund (DDF) serves a distinct purpose from capital
giving. The DDF primarily covers the school’s annual operating expenses, allowing day-to-day operations to run smoothly and efficiently. On the other hand, capital giving is directed toward supporting building projects and special programs, enabling the school to expand its facilities, strengthen its offerings, and grow as an institution.
Q: If we are not in a capital campaign do we still need capital funds?
Over the years, the generosity of Dutchess Day families has enabled the school to complete several significant capital projects that have greatly enhanced the educational experience for students. Some examples of these projects include the acquisition and development of the current campus and buildings (1956), the construction of the science/art room (1973), the addition of the gymnasium (1979), the renovation of the dining room (1993), the expansion of lower school rooms (1993), the establishment of the Apple and IBM Computer Lab (1994), the upgrade of the water system (1996), the modernization of the courtyard (1997), renovations to the art/science wing (1998), the creation of the Thorne Music Center (2016), tennis courts (2017) and renovations to the upper school history, French, and Spanish rooms.
Dutchess Day’s leadership, including the Head of School, Trustees, and Director of Development, works closely with families to keep them informed about the school’s capital needs and upcoming building projects. In addition to these initiatives, donors may also choose to contribute to named funds or explore tailored opportunities that align with their personal interests and the needs of the school. As Dutchess Day continues to grow and evolve, capital giving remains an integral component of its ongoing success, helping to guarantee the school’s exceptional educational experience for future generations.
Planned Giving
Q: What is Planned Giving?
At its core, every gift to Dutchess Day School is a planned gift, reflecting the thoughtful consideration and generosity of the donor. In recent years, the term “Planned Giving” has evolved to encompass larger, long-term contributions that provide lasting benefits for both the donor and the school.
By making a Planned Gift, donors can ensure that their support for DDS will continue to make a meaningful impact on the school’s mission and its students’ educational experience for years to come.
Q:
How can a Planned Gift to Dutchess Day benefit the donor?
Beyond the personal satisfaction of supporting Dutchess Day, donors may also enjoy several financial advantages through planned giving. Depending on the structure of the gift, donors might be able to secure a life income, avoid capital gains tax, and even pass assets to family members with minimal tax implications. By carefully considering their philanthropic goals and working closely with the school's development team, donors can create a customized giving plan that aligns with their personal financial objectives and maximizes the impact of their generosity.
Q. What are examples of a Planned Gift?
There are many ways to make a planned gift to Dutchess Day School, ranging from including the school in one’s will to establishing annuities, trusts, life insurance policies, or real estate funds. Each of these options offers unique benefits to both the donor and the school, and can be customized to align with the donor’s specific financial goals. Given the complexity of these instruments, it is strongly recommended that donors consult with a trusted accountant or attorney to ensure that their planned gift is structured in a way that maximizes its impact and minimizes potential tax liabilities.
Summary
As a school deeply rooted in tradition and committed to excellence, Dutchess Day’s strength and growth depend on the dedication and generosity of its entire community. Parents, alumni/ae, faculty, staff, trustees, and friends of the school all play a vital role in maintaining and enhancing the educational opportunities offered to Dutchess Day students. The school’s ability to meet the evolving needs of its students and remain a leader in elementary education is directly tied to the level of commitment demonstrated by its constituents. Together, we can ensure that Dutchess Day continues to thrive and provide an exceptional education for generations to come.
With much gratitude, all of us at Dutchess Day
THANK YOU
MILLBROOK, NY 12545
WWW.DUTCHESSDAY.ORG
