A Retirement Tribute to Harbor's 11th Head of School
John R. Cissel
About The Artist - Harbor graduate Caroline Hammons '20 created this beautiful watercolor as a gift to the Head of School, John Cissel, in the spring of 2021. Along with many other stunning pieces during her time here at Harbor, Caroline was the guiding hand in the creation of the 2020 graduate plaque that is displayed in the front vestibule of Harbor.
Congratulations, John! There is no way we could possibly capture all that you mean to us. But we’re going to give it a try! Thank you. We’ll miss you! With love, Your Harbor Country Day School Fan Club
Hi John,
I just want you to know that you are going to be missed at this school,
not only by me but by everyone you have touched since you have
been here. I am so very happy at the friendship we have created and
I will miss our talks in the morning before school about anything and
everything but was mainly about my golf game and my golf swing.
I look forward to all the golf we will be able to play now that you have
no excuses to push them o
Artie
. Have a great retirement, you deserve it!
John -. You have been a huge reason why we came to Harbor. I hope you will remember the fun the KB kids have had! They cherish morning elbow bumps. All the best in retirement! - KB Family
John, How can all the experiences and memories with you over so many years possibly be summed up in just a few characters? Well, here goes. It has been a pleasure and an honor to know you as a person, friend, and head of school, and to have worked with you on the board and various committees. Your time at Harbor, especially as head, has been so wonderful for the school community; you will be very much missed. Thank you for all you have accomplished and sacrificed for the students, faculty, and Harbor community. You have done so much and have positioned Harbor well for the new head. We wish you and Peggy many, many years of retired happiness full of bike rides, walks along the beach in search of special stones and shells, and whatever other adventures you have been dreaming of. This is a photo of our family at Dietrich’s graduation from Santa Clara University in 2016, 8 years after his graduation from Harbor, as part of the great class of 2008! Sending you off with our best wishes for a beautiful retirement. Cheers! Sue, Neal, & Dietrich Ryan & our soon-to-be-daughter-in-law, Erica
Congratulations on your retirement!
Thank you for a wonderful year at Harbor!
We wish you lots of happiness now and forever.
The Hopper Family
I will miss our morning conversations. Have a happy retirement - Adriana Rossein
Mr. Cissel, You have been such a wonderful example to both Lars and Kiersten of what a great leader is. Your sincerity, compassion, and your caring for others is such a blessing to the Harbor community. Kiersten says: I appreciate how Mr. Cissel has brought a special bond to the students of Harbor and helping them all care for each other and get along together. I like his coaching methods when he teaches basketball, he makes it seem so easy. We will miss you and wish you all the best in whatever comes your way. Sincerely, The Johnson Family Erik, Melinda, Lars, and Kiersten
Mr. Cissel, When I saw that there was an opportunity to send you a message it struck me as something thats overdue. You helped a lot of kids get through middle school. It’s a hard time for anyone but having someone welcome you each and every day helped enable me to get through each day. Knowing that the person leading the charge for HCDS was someone who actually cared about the students meant something. I still remember when you let me do some of the announcements at those meetings held in the gym, in fact I still have the note you wrote with the list of things to be announced in my room. It was a great experience which stuck with me and helped me gure out just how much I enjoy being on stage. I’m going to college now for TV production and acting and have you, in part, to thank. I hope you get to really enjoy retirement wherever it takes you and that it brings some feeling of accomplishment that you helped so many people. Thank you Mr. Cissel, Harrison Dubro
Hello John, You are a man that I’ve always had a lot of respect for and of course, still do. I had a great time working under you leadership and together we accomplished a lot. Your are a good man with a good heart and a very inspiring personality. My only regret is that our working together came to an end too soon. I still miss all that. And now it is time for you to enjoy the next chapter of you life with your lovely wife Peggy. I can tell you from experience, retirement, like everything in life, is an adjustment. Staying motivated and active is key. But I know that you’ll have no problem doing that. My final word.... I wish you all the best and remember...God still has another plan for you. God Bless, your friend always, Ken
To the one and only, John Cissel, Thank you for living out courage, commitment, charity, dignity, patience, integrity, authentic humility, genuine kindness... and so many other beautiful virtues tangibly and consistently in front of our children. Your handwritten birthday letters and notes of encouragement have been saved and cherished, your morning hand shakes (and covid bumps) will be remembered in the palms of our children’s hands. The impressions left in those hands and hearts continue to grow up with our children as they reach the age of important adult decisions. All the while, you treated the youngest members as equal shapers of Harbor’s inclusive culture. Thank you John from the bottom of our hearts. Wishing you all the very best in your next chapter. We are sure you will find a worthy adventure to throw yourself into headlong. We regard our time knowing you as a rare and wholesome blessing. Much Love, The MacDonald Family: Rich, Anna, Hugo, Sylas & Wystan
Dear John, I’m going to feel a little lost without you, answering my questions :) Happy Retirement and just so you know, the joke in our house is every morning I ask Tyler if our dog can go to school with him. Obviously, T says no and then I add Mr Cissel brings his dog to school. You will be missed! Elena Grossman
Mr. Cissel,
Congrats on your retirement, I was fortunate to have to have a teacher like you.
Hope to see you at harbor before you leave.
Jake Inclan
John,
Congratulations and enjoy this next phase of your life-retirement!
I thought I would have had more time for “me” in retirement. My “me” time now includes time with my 5 beautiful grandchildren and I hope that your new “me” time also includes those wonderful grandchildren of yours.
I will forever be grateful for the opportunities and trust you had in me during my time with you at Harbor. My Harbor employment was the best job I could ever imagine having. People like you made each day easy to come to work.
Be well my friend and enjoy your retirement.
Best, Heidi Gi
uni
Mr. Cissel, You were an absolutely incredible head of school and you will be so missed! You truly embody all of Harbor’s values and were such a great leader for the community. You are so kindhearted and your positive a itude and love for Harbor has always been infectious. I’ve loved catching up with you every so o en throughout the years and wish you all the best! Sarah Hickerson
This special photo of Travis (now a college Sophomore) is quintessential John Cissel. Here is John keenly focused on all that Travis has to say. As if nothing else around him can distract him because at this moment, this child’s presentation needs to be listened to and acknowledged. A picture can say a thousand words and this certainly does. Although this picture captures one HCDS memory, as a family we have so many over the years that we shared with John. Celebrations, concerts, fundraisers, field trips, graduations, moving up ceremonies, birthdays, PA meetings, board meetings, situations that brought us much joy, and the list goes on and on. However, one memory is forever in our minds. This memory is when we sat with you concerned about our son’s future at HCDS wondering if it was the right fit for him as he grew older as we wondered if he needed a di erent approach to support his learning style. You never hesitated to encourage us to set him on a di erent path...the right path for our son. You told us we could do this for him and we could work it out...and we did! And at that moment you helped set him up on a path for success. You put the best interest of our son ahead of everything, and this we are forever appreciative of your guidance and insight. It has been an honor to have gotten to know you and a pleasure to have been working side by side with you all these years. All our love, Carrie & Keith Zuckerman
Congratulations Mr. Cissel on a much deserved retirement. Although we only got to experience Harbor Country for one year with you as its Head of School, it has been a very exciting and transformative experience for Alex and Fiona DeLew. You welcomed our girls as new students this year with open arms, warm smiles and unconditional support. Your leadership and guidance, along with the dedicated teachers and sta at Harbor, helped our children to love learning again, be explorers and to be curious learners. You’ve molded and lead Harbor Country Day School to be a home away from home for the students and their families. We can see that through your relationships with the children and the teachers. It’s bi ersweet to celebrate you moving on to your next chapter, just as our chapter at Harbor is unfolding. We are so thrilled for your next adventure. But also a li le sad, because we have to say goodbye for now. Please come back to visit. We wish you happiness, laughter, and loads of adventures with your family and friends. Thank you for making Harbor what it is today. Thank you for creating a safe, inclusive, joyful environment for our children and all the students and faculty. Thank you for everything. Love, The DeLew Family
Your role in our boys’ school life was unforgettable! You always encouraged them! Harbor will miss you certainly! Prabha Bala
What memorable days we all had together!!
My favorite memory of John Cissel involves a fruit salad. Many years ago John made the faculty a giant fruit salad to eat at an early morning faculty meeting.
Afterward, he casually confessed to me that
the bowl the fruit salad was made and served in, was actually Mosey’s bowl. I’ve (mostly) kept it a secret until now.
I will miss John terribly.
I’ve never had a boss quite like him. He is calm
and collected at all times and genuinely LOVES children. John always nds the good in people and gives the best advice.
I will miss his early morning hello and dissecting pig pharaohs with him. Best of luck in your retirement John!
Caitlin Packard
Mr. Cissel, You have been an integral part of our family over the years as you watched both of our girls pass through the Harbor doors. Kirsten (K - 8); Asanda (K - current (5)). We wish you the very best as you embark on the next chapter of your life. You will be missed. Live--> Love--> Laugh Regards, The Lees’ Family
John, It has been a pleasure getting to know you over the years. You have been an immensely positive influence on the Harbor Country community. I do not think the school, that I endearingly call my second home, would be in as strong a place academically or culturally today if not for you. Andy will have big shoes to fill (I’m sure he’ll do amazingly)! Wishing you the very best in your next chapter in life. Warmest Regards, Matthew Mittleman
To Mr. Cissel, I feel so fortunate to have been an employee here ar Harbor while you were the Headmaster. They say that there are a few people who come along in your ife who really leave an impression...really make a di erence...and for me, you are certainly one of those people. You are a leader who makes people want to do their best every day. Your kindness, compassion, and integrity has been evident to me every day that I have been at Harbor. When the world came to a screeching halt in 2020, it was your weekly zoom faculty meetings that brought comfort, wisdom, and calm to an otherwise frightening, uncertain and confusing situation. I feel so fortunate that you were at the helm for us all here at Harbor. Recently when speaking to you I expressed concern over the future of our school without you, and your response was that soon I’ll be saying “John who??” Well I assure you that will never be the case. I will remember you always and thank you from the bottom of my heart for the indelible mark you have left here at Harbor. While I feel very sad that you will not be here each and every day, I also am so very happy for you as you move on to this next phase in your life. You certainly deserve every moment of a happy and fulfilling retirement. Enjoy your family! Enjoy the great outdoors! I am certain that you will continue to inspire in everything that you do. With Sincere Gratitude, Terry Sko
Thank you for being such a good head of the school! I love the moments that we had together and it’s been so wonderful to see you outside every day in any condition say “Hello good morning.” And you give us an elbow
bump. The saying that everyone knows
is always true and it pains me to say this but time goes by when your having a wonderful time! And I’m so heart broken that your leaving but you will always hold a special place in my heart that will always stand out in me. When I came here I was scared and nervous about the other kids but when I met you, you changed my perspective about this school. You changed me. And that’s all thanks to you. You’ve been with me throughout my entire time in habor and I’m very glad and grateful that you exist because if you didn’t, I don’t know what I would do without you being there every day, not seeing you would be hard enough but it’s so hard to not see your face every day especially with the mask. It’s going to be hard next year when your not there. I’m nervous. I’m nervous because maybe things will change when you are not there and I don’t know if I will ever see you again. I’ve really been heart broken in this past year that you are
not going to be here next year because,
the truth is that I can’t do a single day of school without knowing that you are there. I’ve realized that I can’t go a single school day without you greeting me in the morning or seeing you at recess. You are SO important in my life and I don’t want to let you go. You mean so much to me and know I have to let you go. I’m so honored to write this to you. You are an AMAZING and WONDERFUL. Thank You!
Violet West
We may not remember everything you said but we will remember
how special you made us feel!
Thank you for all the years
lled with morning hand shakes, amazing
halloween costumes, quick conversations in the halls, keeping us safe
in unsure times and a special kindness that we will never forget!
The Phelans
Dear Mr. Cissel,
Congratulations on your well deserved retirement!
We will miss you so much at Harbor; you have left such a wonderful legacy there, and impact on our family. you all the best for this next chapter ahead.
- The Bergen Family
We wish
Mr. Cissel, Thank you for cherishing childhood for Caroline and Grace and hundreds of other students during your time at Harbor. Thank you also for your partnership with Corinne during her service as Board chair. We will miss you and wish you a very happy next chapter with your family! The Hammons Family - Lee, Corinne, Caroline (’20) and Grace (’22)
Dearest Mr. Cissel, The warmness and calm you brought to Harbor will never be replicated. For Lina and Livi it was transformational to have a school leader who knew them, valued them, inspired them, li ed them up, expected more and could dance too! We salute you and wish you all the best! BRAVO! The Salmon Family
We appreciate all you have done and the difference you’ve made at Harbor. It has been a privilege for all of us to get to know you and have all good memories that we hold dear. Happy and healthy retirement from the Beler Family
Dear John, I remember rst meeting you at the Harbor Class of 2015 graduation. In true Harbor fashion, Alexa was given the honor to address the graduates as the commencement speaker that year. You introduced yourself to me and took a genuine interest in both my daughters’ accomplishments and whereabouts, without ever having met me before. My rst impression was what a calming nature you had about you. I could see then that you were a person who was very easy to talk with and our conversation owed. It was also then that I saw a glimmer of a very special leader. I knew I would be blessed to work alongside you as a member of the board of trustees. Seven years later, I am in awe of the presence you carry for those around you. You are the type of leader who takes a keen interest in others’ concerns and lives. You take charge when you need to and know when to sit back and listen. Your relationships with the students, faculty, and parents are a testament to your compassionate nature. Watching your interactions with board members and your involvement in the committees, I am often amazed at how you can stay focused on so many tasks and goals. You really have your hands full and are a true juggling master! In these last seven years, I have seen a reserved and self-assured Head of School become a strong leader with con dence and nesse in leading the faculty, students, parents through the most di cult and unexpected of circumstances. The last two years have presented challenges never faced in the history of our school, families, or communities. Your strength and
consistent leadership have been the calm in the storm on which the whole Harbor community could rely. Congratulations on your retirement, John. I wish you, Peggy, and your family the very best of the golden years to come. You will certainly be missed but I am so very grateful that I had the opportunity to be a part of Harbor’s leadership team with you. The pleasure has been all mine! Thank you for all that you have done for Harbor, John. I wish you plenty of relaxation - you deserve it! With love and admiration, Therese DeAngelis
Hey Mr. Cissel!
Congratulations on retirement!
I have incredibly fond memories of doing All School Meetings every Friday, even if we had to be on Zoom. You made every year much, much, much more fun and I wish you the best!
Congratulations, Daniel Ferro
I remeber the rst day I met John. The admin team was interviewing him for the upper school head postion. I was new to the school, maybe six months. I remember looking at him and listening to him and wondering, why isn’t he interviewing for the heads postion. He had/has such a passion for children and the art of learning. His passion for his sta is just as apparent. He has been a strong advocate for us throughout his time here at Harbor. His calm demeanor and steady head has helped me in so many ways. His love for edcuation, his passion to teach a child, and his compassion for his sta will truley be missed here at Harbor. It has been a true honor to work for/with John for the past 11 years. I wish you much happiness in your semi-retirement. Enjoy your children and grandchidren as much as you can. Noone knows be er than you how short life is. All our best always, Diane, David, Benjamin, Rachel, Jonathan and Kevin Remember to come visit :)
Mr. Cissel is an empathetic, kind, and enthusiastic person. He has a heart like no other, always giving and sharing his knowledge. At All School Meeting, he has great ideas and he is supportive to others’ ideas. He is a role model for our student body and sta . In one particular All School meeting, he talked about being grateful. He showed a video on being grateful. The study was on how people are more happy if they write down and tell the person that they are grateful for. Mr. Cissel shared that he was grateful for his brother. He wrote him a le er and then tried calling him. He allowed us time to write a le er to someone we were grateful for. He is the most caring and kind person ever! He is a true leader and has great interpersonal skills. Harbor is so lucky to have known him. He will be missed dearly. Brianna DiPaola
Dear Mr. Cissel, Congratulations and Happy Retirement! Thank you for your kindness and dedication to Harbor. You have made Harbor feel like a second home for Nicholas. We are truly thankful for having you as our Head of School! We wish you all the best!!! Warmly, The Finamore Family
Thank you for being such a big part of the Mellert Boys’ Harbor experience! May you have a long, happy and ful lling retirement! With Love and Gratitude, The Mellert Family
Dear John, When I rst started at Harbor back in 2013, I valued (and still do) your leadership, guidance and dedication to the education world with such worth. I must thank you for everything you have done for me as you have shaped me into the teacher that I am today. You’ve challenged me to take on the very prestigious role of a Division Head and I must thank you for igniting a side of me that I didn’t know I had. This title and you have taught me more than I could have ever imagined. Thank you John. Thank you for your love and loyalty to HCDS. Thank you for your daily and /weekly advice. And most of all thank you for having the con dence in me to be a leader in Early childhood. There are too many memories to share in a small amount of words, but my all time favorite is when you are with my students. Reading to them in your o ce on Halloween, having pizza parties at your house while listening to your story about a mouse in your shoe and coming into the classroom to show our little ones your magic tricks! My wish for you is that you have a happy retirement. Again, thank you for everything you’ve done for me over the years. I appreciate it very much, and I shall miss working with you everyday. Enjoy your retirement! Sincerely, Krystina Gallo
Dear John, Words are really inadequate to express the depth of respect and gratitude for what you’ve done for (and meant to) Harbor: its faculty, students, and community. You and my family came to Harbor the same year and I began my journey on the board when you became head. I’m so proud of the wonderful partnership we’ve developed and our work together. You’ve led the school with your heart — with a genuine interest in the children and the faculty, and warm reassurance for the parents. Harbor has been so fortunate to have had you at the helm and your legacy will leave a lasting imprint for generations of children to come. Wishing you well in your (well earned) retirement. With fond wishes, Cynthia Lippe
John,
If I remember correctly, I was the
rst teacher to greet you (after
your bike ride from the ferry) on that hot July day, 10 years ago. This is one of my favorite pictures at a “Back to School” BBQ in September 2019.
Quite a year that followed!!!!! I will miss you. Best of luck in all of your future endeavors.
Donna Siani
Dear Mr. Cissel, Never in my life have I enjoyed going to work nearly as much as I have since coming to Harbor.... Largely thanks to you! Since you’ve made it clear that you’re not old enough to be the father of someone as old as me, I’ll say instead that I wish I had been blessed to have someone like you as a brother... and that I’m so very grateful that I’ve had the privilege to know you as a colleague and friend. You are the epitome of grace under fire, the finest example of what it means to be a gentleman and, hands down, the best sport I’ve ever met! Whether I was wrapping you like a mummy, dressing you like Doc Brown in Back to the Future, making you dive into 45 degree water in December, or subjecting you to my pranks and shenanigans, you were always game for whatever was thrown at you. It made my ’job’, which is so very fulfilling and meaningful, also an incredible amount of fun. I am going to miss you tremendously and sincerely hope we can meet at Charlie’s bar from time to time to catch up! Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement and enjoy all that is in store for you! Lots of love and best wishes, Jen Taggart
Thank you for everything, Mr Cissel. We will miss you tons.
You have been a great principal and we are so sad you have to
leave. But we wish you a happy and healthy retirement.
Love,
The Puchners (Sidney, Joe, Nancy and Ned)
Congratulation Mr. Cissel on your retirement. We wish you much happiness and enjoyment. We will miss you! The Rosenblatt Family Evan and Jack
Dear Mr. Cissel,
There are so many special memories that I have of you. In 2015 when I started working at Camp Harbor you greeted me with a cheerful, warm welcome to Harbor Country Day School. Ever since then I knew this is where I wanted to work. I enjoy catching up with you every Thursday during our recess duty. I will certainly miss you during the morning drop-o
and the parent pick-up. Your “spot” will be hard to
replace. Happy Retirement and enjoy every bit of it!!
Sincerely, Carly Lange
Dear Mr. Cissel, Thank you for everything you did each day to bring Harbor’s mission to life. We are so grateful for the time Sarah and Jillian spent at Harbor. The smiles on these faces say it all. We will never forget Jillian waking up one summer day and putting on her Harbor uniform. What 2nd grader does that?! We think she was ready to end summer and go back to school in July. She was definitely disappointed she had to wait until September. That’s the learning environment you created for students. Thank you for giving us so many memories like this. We wish you a wonderful retirement! With love, The Anderson Family Jennifer, Bill, Sarah & Jillian
I don’t have a speci
c memory of Mr. Cissel and I, but I will always remember
the way he made me feel. Mr. Cissel has a way of making people feel welcomed and appreciated. Thank you for allowing me to become part of this incredibly special community and for all of your warm support throughout the years.
I will miss you coming into my classroom just to say hello and have a laugh with the kids.
I’ll miss seeing you outside each morning and your wise words at all school meeting. I feel so blessed to have been able to get to know you as a person and as our school leader. You are truly irreplaceable and will be missed so much!!! Enjoy every second of your well deserved retirement with your family. We love you endlessly Mr. Cissel!
- Janine Leone
Dear Mr. Cissel, Thank you for the amazing three years Sarah had at Harbor and five years for Jillian. We are grateful for all the incredible memories we have. We will never forget Sarah’s response to what would make Harbor better.....“To make the school bigger so that it went up to 12th grade.” Thank you for your dedication to making Harbor such an extraordinary school that students don’t want to leave. Congratulations on your very well-deserved retirement! With love, The Anderson Family Jennifer, Billy, Sarah & Jillian
I will always remember John’s smiling face each day, and the positivity and warmth he always brought to HCDS. He would always ask how my kids and family were, and really made me feel like I am an important member of the Harbor community. I will always cherish his encouragement and kind words. Whenever we would have a fourth grade event, I could always count on John to be present and o er motivating words to my students. They always felt so good about their hard work! John, you made Harbor an amazing place to work each day. I consider myself extremely lucky to have been a part of this astounding school for the past three years, under your unwavering leadership. I will miss you greatly and I wish you nothing but the best in your future. Enjoy the time with your wonderful wife and family and please keep in touch! Very grateful, Jackie Burt
John, Congratulations you on your retirement!!! I’m very happy I got to meet and work with you, even though it was for a short time! Wishing you only the best of health and happiness in all you do!. Who knows, maybe we will run into each other in Conn. I will be the one pushing the baby carriage. lol. John, thank you again for everything. You will be greatly missed! Take Care, Fran
When I think of John Cissel I think of - A man that puts a smile on every face, whether young or old. A feeling of comfort when in his presence. A person that cares- about each person, and genuinely wants the best for all. John, it has been wonderful working with you for my time thus far at Harbor. You helped me feel welcomed, you have shown your care for me and my family and you have given me the beautiful opportunity to grow as an educator. Your philosophy has taught me the importance of genuine engagement. Your leadership style will continue to be with me a er you leave, and for that I am ever so appreciative. Best of luck John in your retirement. I hope you get the chance to go on many adventures and enjoy time with those you love! Sincerely, Kimberly Jungen
Hello John, From the rst day my wife and I met you when Madison was in kindergarten, I knew Harbor Country Day School had something special. The way you and your administration welcomed us into Harbor was very nice. I will miss the morning greetings when dropping o Madison, your weekly Note from the Head of School, NCAA March Madness basketball and NFL Playo s Brackets, The Masters’ Golf Tournament, etc. I was hoping you would come back like Tom Brady , but I guess it isn't so. John, I wish you and your family all the best on your next journey. We will truly miss your presence at Harbor. Sincerely, The Arnold family, Madison, Diego, Paula, and Curtis Curtis Arnold
Dear John,
Happy Retirement!!! I am really going to miss you, but I am also so excited for you to start your new adventure! This is your time to
nally enjoy all of your
hard work and focus solely on yourself and spend time with your beautiful family!
I wanted to THANK YOU for always being so kind, supportive, and for making me laugh during our morning hellos. You are a very special person, and I am so blessed that I have had the opportunity to get to know you.
I wish you all the best of luck in whatever comes your way, and please stay in touch!!!
Dana Amir
Dear Mr. Cissel -
You are a wonderful, kind and caring head of school and I am so sad to see you go. We’ll all miss you ver y much. One of my favorite memories was when you and Ms. Taggart said we could get the bricks! I can’t believe how much I’ve changed since I
rst started here at Harbor.
I remember “greeting” you at the front screaming and cr ying under my Mom’s arm, and now I am walking up and saying good morning and making my way to class. Although I am excited for Mr. Sperling to come in, I’m not as excited as I am sad that you’re leaving.
I hope to see you again! I’ll miss you!
Lot’s of love and thanks, Rose Ciotta
ank you so much just for being who you are.
Dear Mr. Cissel I don’t know that I can express my thanks any better than Rose did. From our first meeting in Christine McBrien’s office to discuss whether Harbor would be right for Rose, to her current “Harbor career”, you have made such an incredible difference in her life. As you know, she has grown so very much, and in so many positive ways that I’m not certain would have happened anywhere else. I’ve always believed that any organization’s effectiveness filters down from the top. Your leadership has created an atmosphere at Harbor that is extremely unique. You have managed to lead a wonderfully strong team through huge challenges, and have the school come out “smelling like a rose” (Couldn’t resist!) And through it all, you have affected the Harbor children on an individual level as well. You certainly have for Rose. Thank you for helping her on a path that will serve her well her entire life. God bless you, and enjoy your retirement! With sincere gratitude, John Ciotta
Dear Mr. Cissel,
Congratulations on your retirement! Lorenz will miss seeing you at Harbor. your hard work and dedication.
Markus and Jakob Thank you for all
We wish you nothing
but the best on your next journey!!
Lots of love, Al, Jennifer, Markus and Jakob Lorenz
Dear John,
We love all that you did. Now go and do all that you love!
Congratulations on your retirement and know your the best!
Love,
Krissy
Dear John,
I have only been here at harbor for 2 years but I instantly was able to see the positive impact you have had on this school. You have been a leader in much needed and di
cult times and brought kindness,
compassion, and steadfast reliability to help weather the storm of the past few years.
On a personal note, you gave me my
rst opportunity in a teaching
position. For that, I am forever grateful. Congratulations on the next chapter of your life; you will be missed at Harbor!
Ali Hinkaty
Dear John, We, as a family, have been so blessed during our years at Harbor under your leadership. I will always remember your smiles and handshakes each morning. You always made every child feel valued. Wishing you a much deserved retirement! Your legacy will remain at Tulip Knoll!! Hugs & Love, The Pisciotta Family
Dear Mr Cissel, I will miss you. I think you are the best head of school ever. I wish you have a safe and fun retirement life. - Jasmine Dear Mr. Cissel, I will miss you a er you retire. I think you are the most amazing head of school ever. Hope you have a good retirement! - Josephine Dear John, It seems like yesterday when we heard your vision of nourishing each child’s con dence and independence, and of teaching them to be critical thinkers. It was those aspects that drew us to Harbor. A er 5 years, we see the girls progressing in that direction. Thank you for your leadership. We are sad to see you go. On the other hand, we understand that it is time for you to go on to your new ventures. We wish you all the best. - HP / Hsin
Dear Mr. Cissel,
I hope your retirement is better than my head was about 10 minutes
after this photo! HaHa. Anyway thank you for being such a great
headmaster who socializes with us and helps us with things that aren’t
just school related, like when you helped helped me with boy scouts.
Through my years you have been supportive with everything we’ve
done, Whether it’s greeting us at the door or helping us mummify pigs,
you have always been there.
Sincerely,
Luke Short
We will miss you John, however we know that your values live on inside our children and within the administrators and teachers at HCDS! We always treasured our brief chats with you when we saw you at school or various events. You were a great story teller, writer, teacher and a sturdy anchor and shining beacon of light throughout our years at Harbor and throughout this Pandemic in particular. Glad to know you’ll be just across the Sound! Enjoy your next chapter of adventure, John! Ella and Luke, Gretchen and Carrie The Short-Eigenbrod Family
We hope you have an amazing next chapter! Best, Carrie, Gretchen, Luke, & Ella
We will miss you so much, thank you for making our years at Harbor so wonderful. xoxo Teresa and Richie
Dear Mr. Cissel, You have had such a profound impact on Jack’s educational experience. We can’t possibly thank you enough for making school fun, engaging, happy and safe. You will so very dearly be missed around these parts. Enjoy retirement!- keep those forehands ripping and those backhands slicing! Michelle, Vish & Jack
John,
Best wishes and many blessings in your retirement, enjoy your time
with your family and friends! Thank you for your steady leadership,
kindness, and listening ear. Milo will always remember the tadpole
adventure, and of course the polar plunge!
Be well, be safe, be happy!
Dawn King
We entered Harbor during Covid and the majority of our first interactions with the sta and Mr. Cissel were over zoom. I remember the relief we felt knowing that our child would be entering into a community that was being steered by a thoughtful, invested leader. That feeling was palpable, even over zoom! Thank you, Mr. Cissel, for helping make our experience at Harbor a meaningful one and for having shaped the school and community to a place where we hope to be for many years to come. We’re wishing you all the best in your next great chapter. - The Fleming Family
This is the way we will always remember you Mr. Cissel; someone who created a family feeling for Andrew and Alex. We wish you many years of happy retirement. You will always be in our hearts. Andrew, Alex, Gerri and Bob
Congratulations on your retirement, John!
We will miss you greatly!
You have always been such a wonderful
listener and I still remember meeting you as I was toured the school as a prospective parent. Your kindness and philosophy helped draw me to the school. After working with you for several years now, it is still apparent to me that you are a wonderful leader and a sincere human.
ank you for all you have done for Harbor and collaborating with preschool to make the best possible program.
Love, Gretchen Dobrowolski
You will be missed!
John, you are the “Bestes” of the best. I know, as there were ve plus before. Your leadership & support, always there as is fun and good humor. You will truly be missed, especially on March 14th. Enjoy your last ferry ride, I will wave as you go by. Lynda
Dear Mr. Cissel, Cheers to the fulfillment of a memorable year! Not surprisingly, we have had a lot of fun over the last seven months. Leadership at Harbor Country Day School takes many forms. One of our greatest joys has been your gentle smile and warm heart during morning drop off. We feel blessed Parker was able to have had the opportunity to greet you each morning- a highlight that will forever be cherished. This year, we cannot help but think about how grateful we are to have joined a school community with such a profound history and a commitment to shaping the future. We end our note today by saying thank you followed by a big round of applause. While we will have more chances to celebrate you in person, we want to acknowledge your hard work, commitment, and success. It has been a yellow brick road of partnership, collaboration, support, and blessings for us this year. We wish you a retirement filled with adventures and unlimited possibilities. Cheers to you good sir! Love, Gina, John, and Parker
Oh, John, how we will miss you at Tulip Knoll, loving, caring, teaching, coaching,
sharing and leading with Harbor’s motto, “Sine labore nihil,” and your special
dose of humor and humility.
We knew from the
rst time we met you that you embodied the true spirit of
Harbor.
Always so supportive inside and outside of school!
We marveled that there was someone in motion as much as we were! And have
incredible appreciation for the energy you shared with our Harbor Family.
Good luck and enjoy the new places you’ll go! Thank you, John - Go Harbor!
Dave, Jose
na, Sydney ‘12 and Montgomarie ‘17 Essex
Dear John,
Thank you so much for welcoming me into the Habor family. I have enjoyed working with you immensely and only wish it could have been longer. Best wishes for a long, healthy, and happy retirement.
Sincerely, Danielle Martino
Dear Mr.Cissel,
Thank you for being an amazing Head of School during my time at Harbor. Your kindness, compassion, dedication to the students will always be remembered, and Harbor will always hold a special place in my heart.
Thank you For everything Mr. Cissel!
Sincerely, Violet Radgowski
Dear Mr. Cissel, It has been an honor to know you. You are a wonderful man and most importantly, an amazing educator. You’ve basically watched me grow up and were there every step of the way. I will never forget the impact you had on me, and how you always let me be myself. I treasure everything you have done for me, and all the Harbor students. Thank you so so so much. Love, Maddie Tona
Dear John, As you know, I grew up in Eastern Europe. My school experience was complicated: I learned a lot of math and sciences but there was never time for fun. We always had to prepare for the next entry exam. I did not have the chance to interact with any of my teachers beyond the classroom. I never relaxed. Stress and anxiety were considered the necessary ingredients for a “top” school. Similarly, a “good” teacher had to be severe, distant, and assign the most di cult test questions. It is therefore probably no surprise that a er almost forty years since I graduated from high school, I still have recurring nightmares about taking a test for which I know all answers, but the test time is up before I write down the rst word of my answers. I must say that I am so happy that Michael and Alexander had quite the opposite experience as students at Harbor. I am sure that they will not have school-related nightmares when they will be my age. They learned a lot, probably more than I did, but also enjoyed the kind, warm, and inspiring atmosphere at Harbor. They played sports, sang in the choir, danced [ Alexander ], designed hieroglyphs, built bird houses, launched rockets, made trips to Frost Valley and Green Kill, played basketball and soccer
games, and enjoyed so many other wonderful experiences. Five years a er graduating from Harbor, some of Michael’s best friends are his former Harbor classmates. Thank you for inspiring and leading the school’s transformation into the amazing learning place that it is today. I consider Harbor to be for sure - the nest school that I ever got to know. It has been an honor and a privilege for me to work with you on the Board. Thank you for all the great discussions we had and for sharing your experience with me. I will never forget them. With gratitude and friendship, Alex Doboli
Dear Mr. Cissel, I just want to thank you for making my time at Harbor so special. I still remember that very first day of fifth grade when I shook your hand outside the building. You made me feel welcome and I knew that I would grow to love my new school. You made me always feel that I had something important to say and I appreciate how closely you listened. I loved learning basketball with you and the history lessons on Egypt. You helped me to grow into the student and person I am today and I will never forget you. I hope to stay in touch! Your former student, James Grillo
Dear Mr. Cissel, We cannot thank you enough for everything you have done to cultivate and preserve the mission and spirit of Harbor Country Day School. As a teacher and Head of School, you have been devoted to the Harbor we all know and love: a school and community where the joy of learning, importance of togetherness and innocence of childhood are cherished. The warmth, inclusivity and kindness you have shown to all of the children at Harbor over the years is something we have always appreciated. For the countless ways you have given to Harbor, you have a special place in our hearts. We wish you much happiness, good health and many great adventures as you embark on this new chapter in your life. With our love, The Berlingieri Family