Quietly planning a big, warm welcome

IN KEEPING WITH THE “BEHIND THE SCENES” theme of this Spring’s magazine, I wanted to share some details of where the Board of Trustees is focusing its attention. While the Board has many priorities, none is more front and center than assuring a successful transition for our incoming Head of School, Gretchen Larkin, who begins her Eagle Hill journey July 1.

Last September, a Transition Committee was formed, consisting of Trustees, faculty and staff. The committee meets regularly and has planned several opportunities for our community to get to know Gretchen. The other important aspect of the transition is to help Gretchen, Bill and their family get comfortably situated in Greenwich after many years of residing in suburban Boston.

TO THAT END:

The Head’s residence on Glenville Road is being painted and updated in anticipation of the Larkin’s arrival. In addition to being their home, Gretchen and Bill will use the house as an asset accessible to many EHS constituents and events.

Gretchen has visited the EHS campus several times over the course of the current school year. She has met faculty and staff at lunch and in-service on a Friday afternoon. In case you were wondering, our faculty spends Friday afternoons on campus attending professional enrichment programs.

Additionally, Family Bingo in late January afforded Gretchen, accompanied by Trustee and Parents Association President, Jennifer Borak, the opportunity to meet students and their families. Gretchen joined Family Fun Day in late April, allowing her to experience the EHS community during our most popular annual event. Finally, each of her visits has included small lunches and dinners with Trustees and their spouses.

Co-Chairs conduct a Zoom meeting with her after each board meeting to discuss topics such as finances, enrollment and staffing. Further, Gretchen and current Head of School, Jim Heus, speak frequently to help ensure a smooth transition of leadership.

Gretchen has been briefed on the formation of a Strategic Planning Council that includes trustees, faculty, staff, parents and alumni. The important work done by this dedicated group of people will culminate with a community-wide visioning day in the fall. We will also host several social events this fall to allow more of our community the opportunity to get to know Gretchen and Bill.

While the Board has many priorities, none is more front and center than assuring a successful transition for our incoming Head of School, Gretchen Larkin.

To better introduce Gretchen to our community, Trustee Sonja Bartlett has produced an introduction video featuring Gretchen. This will be included on the school’s website and social media accounts in the coming months. While its content remains under wraps, I am sure it will demonstrate the enthusiasm and passion that Gretchen will bring to her new role as our Head of School.

Finally, we have included Gretchen in many of the school’s operational discussions and decisions over the past year. The Board

While the excitement of new leadership has us all engaged, the time also has a bittersweet feel, as we will say goodbye to our current Head of School, Jim Heus. Jim joined us for a one-year interim commitment almost three years ago. His leadership through COVID-19 and a prolonged Head of School search has been both extraordinary and generous. The Board of Trustees is extremely grateful for his work and commitment to Eagle Hill. More top-secret details to honor Jim’s tenure will be forthcoming.

TOM HALSCH Board of Trustees Co-Chair