Strategic Plan 2030

Building on Tradition, Shaping the Future

Since its founding in 1963, Fort Worth Country Day has remained rooted in the vision first shared by founding Board Chair Perry Bass H’99: “We want the finest day school in America.” Over the past six decades, that guiding principle has been brought to life through the School’s enduring mission – to foster the intellectual, physical, emotional and ethical development of capable students through an academically rigorous college-preparatory program that integrates the arts and athletics. As FWCD looks to the future, that same vision and mission anchor the School’s next chapter. Strategic Plan 2030 continues to guide FWCD’s growth, providing a compass for thriving in an ever-evolving educational landscape.

Initiated in the 2023-24 academic year and led by a 22-member committee, the strategic planning process was broad and inclusive, bringing together voices from every corner of the FWCD community through a variety of events, workshops and meetings. “The process to get to a final plan reminded me of what makes this community so special,” said Eric Lombardi, Head of School. “The engagement, candor and care people brought to the table made it clear that FWCD is united around a shared purpose.”

Strategic Plan 2030 outlines four strategic pillars (see complete objectives and rationales starting on page 42): advancing excellence in the 3A’s (Academics, Arts, Athletics); preparing students for life beyond FWCD; further strengthening community culture; and prioritizing the wellbeing of students, faculty and staff.

“This plan isn’t just about staying relevant, it is about leading,” said Randy Eisenman ’93, who chaired the Strategic Planning Committee. “We wanted to create a plan that stays true to FWCD and its mission, philosophy and core values while pushing us to innovate, adapt, and continue delivering an unparalleled student experience.”

The plan is designed to be a dynamic document that guides annual priorities for the Board of Trustees and the Head of School, yet is flexible enough to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.

“This plan is a compass, not a map,” Lombardi said. “It gives us direction and establishes our bearing while still allowing us flexibility over the next five years to respond to the needs of our students and the world they’re growing up in.”

To read the full plan and the introductory letter, visit the 2030 Strategic Plan website at fwcd.org/strategicplan.

Strategic Plan 2030 Vision Statement

Fort Worth Country Day proudly stands as a beacon of excellence, fostering passionate engagement and a deep sense of belonging for every individual within our school community. Recognized for our rich tradition, rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, and dedication to personal growth, we attract and retain the highest caliber of faculty, staff, and students, fostering an innovative and vibrant educational environment. Our unwavering commitment to our students’ lifelong success deeply motivates FWCD to provide a robust learning journey enriched by a focus on those students’ unique interests and talents. Grounded in a culture that prioritizes the well-being of all in our community, we cultivate an environment that seamlessly integrates exceptional academics, athletics and the arts. Embracing a philosophy of experiential learning, we transcend traditional boundaries, preparing students not only for college but also for successful and fulfilling lives. Our thriving graduates are well-prepared for college and beyond, poised to become leaders in their chosen fields and to navigate life with purpose, integrity and resilience.

We wanted to create a plan that stays true to FWCD and its mission, philosophy and core values while pushing us to innovate, adapt, and continue delivering an unparalleled student experience. ~ Randy Eisenman ’93

Strategic Pillar I: Delivering Excellence and Enduring Value Throughout the 3A’s

Strategic Objective

FWCD actively upholds its strong foundation of excellence in academics, athletics and the arts. We continually enhance our offerings, ensuring curricular relevance and innovation. This refinement addresses vital skills needed for successful and fulfilling lives while providing opportunities for students to enrich their educational journey based on unique interests and talents as they progress in age and grade level.

Strategic Rationale

By actively maintaining a strong foundation of excellence across academics, athletics and the arts, the School ensures a well-rounded education that nurtures diverse talents and interests. Continuously enhancing our offerings guarantees that the curriculum remains dynamic and responsive to the evolving demands of the modern world, equipping students with the essential skills necessary for their future endeavors. By allowing Middle School and Upper School students to personalize elements of their educational experiences according to their individual passions and talents, FWCD fosters a sense of ownership over one’s academic journey, ultimately empowering students to thrive on their chosen paths.

Strategic Pillar II: Preparing Students for College and Beyond

Strategic Objective

FWCD will expand its impact as an exceptional collegepreparatory school to a premier comprehensive college and beyond-college preparatory institution by designing and implementing a purpose-aligned curriculum from junior kindergarten to 12th grade. This innovative approach will integrate academic curriculum with critical life skills, experiential learning, introspection, community service, and individual and group projects. FWCD graduates will possess the essential tools for success and fulfillment in college and beyond.

Strategic Rationale

Academic excellence is essential, and FWCD’s well-rounded education integrates critical life skills and experiences that prepare students for life beyond college. FWCD’s holistic approach ensures that students not only excel academically but also develop the necessary tools and mindset to thrive in various aspects of life, including in their careers, relationships, and personal well-being. By focusing on comprehensive development, FWCD will empower students to navigate challenges, pursue passions, and lead purposeful lives, contributing positively to both the FWCD community and society at-large.

Strategic Pillar III: Cultivating a Thriving Culture and Engaged Community

Strategic Objective

FWCD upholds a commitment to its core values and inclusivity statement while nurturing a kind, welcoming and engaging environment where every individual feels a profound sense of belonging. Through deliberate initiatives, we foster a culture where each person’s uniqueness is valued and embraced. By prioritizing open communication, empathy and inclusion, we cultivate a community where diverse perspectives are honored and respected. This commitment ignites a passion for active participation in our community, empowering meaningful contributions to our collective purpose, mission and vision.

Strategic Rationale

By embodying our core values and inclusivity statement and prioritizing open communication, empathy and inclusion, FWCD fosters essential skills and perspectives for navigating an interconnected world. This approach enables students to thrive in a globalized society and pursue successful careers. FWCD cultivates a culture of belonging and empowerment, inspiring students to actively engage in the School and in the community.

Strategic Pillar IV: Fostering Student, Faculty and Staff Health and Wellbeing

Strategic Objective

Recognizing the intrinsic link between the well-being of our students, faculty and staff, we embark on a transformative journey to enhance overall health and well-being within the School community. Through a comprehensive JK through 12th grade well-being curriculum, we prioritize the physical, mental, emotional and social health of FWCD students, faculty and staff. While maintaining our dedication to academic excellence, we will refine our approach to student, faculty and staff workload to ensure a healthy balance between academic rigor and personal well-being. By reaffirming our commitment to being a great place to work, we ensure our faculty and staff feel valued and supported while exploring avenues to catalyze their professional development and enhance their overall satisfaction. Together, we cultivate a thriving community where every member flourishes, resulting in happy, healthy, and fulfilled students, faculty and staff.

Strategic Rationale

Prioritizing the overall health and well-being of students, faculty and staff is essential for creating an environment conducive to academic excellence, personal growth and lifelong success. By recognizing the interconnectedness between the well-being of our educators and learners, we lay the foundation for a community where everyone can thrive academically, socially and emotionally. When faculty members are supported in their physical, mental and emotional health, they are better equipped to provide highquality education and support to students. Similarly, when students’ well-being is prioritized, they can more effectively engage in learning, develop crucial life skills, and achieve their full potential.