ANNUAL REPORT

2021-2022

Dear Country Day Community,

My new favorite place on campus is the Bernstein Conference Room in Mingledorff Hall. In my capacity as Board Chair, I attend a lot of meetings, and when they take place in this spot, I typically take a seat where I can watch the parade of incredibly youthful faces and strides of the students. The freedom they enjoy post-Covid to roam the campus and gather in groups seems to agree with them as I mostly witness smiles and laughter; their proximity serves as a meaningful reminder of the school’s mission to prepare them for college and life. And that preparation starts so early! Recently I went into Mrs. Gilpin’s first grade class as a “mystery reader,” but the real mystery is how she inspires children today as magically as she did thirty years ago when she taught my daughter. Now my other daughter’s son is in her class, and throughout campus I’m struck by the sense of community that is palpable at SCDS. There are so many alumni whose children are now enrolled, and as always, many alumni have chosen to come back and be part of the school’s faculty or staff or to be faithful donors. We have a wonderful history to celebrate and a future made secure by the generosity of so many families, some of whom are just starting their SCDS journey.

The Board of Trustees is very grateful for the support of so many of you who have given generously. The Fund for Country Day surpassed its $700,000 goal, reaching $707,863 with 1,084 donors, 185 of which were first-time gifts. In the last year, 22% of annual fund donors increased their gifts and grandparent giving continues to increase well above national averages. The percentage of alumni parents giving is at 14%, with the national average at 9.5%.

I would like to thank each member of the Board of Trustees and ask that you thank them as well. We are fortunate to have such a strong group of leaders who give their time and talent to guide the school. Our Head of School, Kef Wilson, is in his tenth year in this role and continues to lead with a commitment to the success of Savannah Country Day’s future. He and his administrative team work tirelessly to ensure that SCDS continues as an excellent school and an incredible environment for learning—a place where students are encouraged to think critically, value different viewpoints, appreciate innovation, and begin a lifetime love of learning.

Sincerely,

Mary Sprague Chair, Board of Trustees

THE 2021-2022 FUND FOR COUNTRY DAY BY

CONSTITUENCY

TOTAL SUPPORT: 1,084 Donors | $707,863

Due to overlaps in constituencies, constituency subtotals are higher than total amount raised.