We live in a time of profound disruption—where change comes fast, complexity is the norm, and certainty is fleeting. In this shifting landscape, the question is not only how students will succeed but also who they will become.
At Taft, we believe the answer lies in cultivating fully human learners—curious, creative, adaptable, principled, and deeply connected to the people and the world around them. Taft graduates must be problem solvers and possibility seekers. They are thinkers and doers, artists and innovators, teammates, leaders, and great neighbors.
Education for Life is our blueprint for what comes next: a vision rooted in our values and focused on preparing young people not simply to navigate a changing world, but to shape it—with imagination, integrity, heart, and, above all, a commitment to serve.
Non ut sibi,
PETER BECKER ’95 HEAD OF SCHOOL
Rooted in Tradition. Designed for Tomorrow.
Today, Taft’s opportunity is more promising than ever. Our proud legacy of educating the whole student, character development, and exceptional academic and co-curricular programs— supported by talented, dedicated adults—provides the foundation for an engaging and empowering four-year experience for every student.
We are reimagining the boarding school experience as an intentionally integrated education of mind, body, and spirit, designed to meet the needs of adolescents and prepare them to lead purposeful, meaningful lives.
We believe education is a hopeful and transformative journey—one that not only shapes individuals but also helps build a better world. At Taft, we cultivate students who are self-motivated, independent, creative, and courageous—ready to live out our motto and make a lasting impact.
Our vision is for every student to serve and lead as an engaged member of Taft’s lifelong learning community. Grounded in shared values and a culture of mentorship, collaboration, and service, our collective impact extends far beyond our campus.
Taft’s Core Values
These five core values reflect what we believe matters most—today and in the future. They guide our decisions, shape our programs, and inspire our community. We honor our past and build our future grounded in these values.
Learn Deeply
Stay curious. Challenge yourself to explore diverse interests. Think rigorously to uncover patterns and connections. Deepen your understanding of yourself and the world. Make thoughtful decisions that reflect your highest intentions.
Build Purpose
Purpose extends beyond the self. We discover who we are in a diverse and resilient community where every individual matters; where we find meaning, joy, and hope in serving others, exploring interests, navigating challenges, and celebrating accomplishments.
Serve Generously
Service is rooted in authentic connections within a diverse community and a commitment to care for ourselves and others. Demonstrate compassion, responsibility, and healthy habits as you prioritize the well-being of both yourself and your neighbors.
Pursue Excellence
We discover the best in ourselves and others by striving for excellence in our individual and collective endeavors. By acting with integrity, creativity, humility, and responsibility, we learn, lead, and create to meet the needs of a changing world.
Lead with Courage
Leadership and learning are intertwined, and the right path is often not the easiest one. Confidence and resilience come from taking risks, embracing feedback, learning from setbacks, growing in self-knowledge, considering the needs of others in relation to our own, and discovering our gifts as we lead and serve wherever we are.
Education for Life
Taft educates the whole person to strive for wisdom, find joy in purpose, nurture relationships, build resilience, practice humility, pursue excellence, and live with honor.
PORTRAIT OF A LEARNER
Taft Graduates Will...
Strive for Wisdom
• Engage Curiously
• Foster Focus
• Think Critically
• Analyze Data
• Reflect and Grow
Find Joy in Purpose
• Explore Passions
• Embrace Active Learning
• Cultivate Creativity
• Lead with Positivity
• Seek Inspiration
Nurture Relationships
• Prioritize Empathy
• Communicate Thoughtfully
• Embrace Diversity
• Practice Compassion
• Balance Technology Use
Build Resilience
• Grow Through Challenge
• Persist Through Adversity
• Cultivate Self-Regulation
• Prioritize Well-Being
Practice Humility
• Embrace Lifelong Learning
• Practice Self-Awareness
• Value Service
Pursue Excellence
• Set High Standards
• Distinguish Progress from Perfection
• Reflect on Growth
Live with Honor
• Be Honest
• Take Responsibility
• Act with Integrity
Strategic Priorities
Taft aims to deliver a transformational four-year educational experience that harnesses the unique opportunities for learning and growth in a residential high school environment.
To achieve this, we have identified four integrated strategic priorities around which we will implement broader change. These priorities will guide our work and ensure our ability to educate the whole student to strive for wisdom, find joy in purpose, nurture relationships, build resilience, practice humility, pursue excellence, and live with honor.
PRIORITY TWO
Implement a Four-Year Framework for Whole Student Learning
Develop programs and courses that cultivate intellectual curiosity, independence, and character development, aligning with the school’s core values and Portrait of a Learner.
• Broaden curricular offerings.
• Evaluate and optimize the academic calendar and daily schedule.
• Reimagine residential life as a dynamic space for intentional learning and growth.
• Embed integrated, grade-specific essential questions, learning milestones, and signature learning experiences throughout the student journey.
• Equip students to use emerging digital tools—including artificial intelligence—responsibly, ethically, and effectively, while empowering them to design and create the tools of the future.
Advance Faculty Development to Drive Whole Student Learning
Invest in faculty and staff through meaningful professional development that enhances both teaching and student support.
• Initiate and expand a research-informed plan for professional growth.
• Foster a culture of mutual, growth-minded feedback.
• Invest in faculty housing to support recruitment, retention, and a strong sense of community.
THREE
PRIORITY FOUR
Invest in Taft’s Future
Ensure long-term excellence through disciplined strategic planning, resource stewardship, and mission-driven investment.
• Advance a comprehensive campus plan that reflects our educational priorities, programmatic needs, and commitment to sustainability.
• Cultivate lasting, relationship-driven strategies to inspire philanthropic support for Taft’s most valuable assets: our students, faculty, and programs.
• Financial Aid: Enhance access for the most talented, mission-aligned students.
• Faculty: Recruit, develop, and retain world-class educators.
• Programs: Evolve curriculum and facilities to serve the needs of Taft students in academics, arts, athletics, leadership, service, residential life, and health & wellness.
Activate the Power of the Taft Community for a Lifetime
Strengthen connections—on campus and beyond—to broaden opportunities for learning, mentorship, and meaningful engagement.
• Engage alumni, parents, and friends of Taft to expand learning beyond campus and offer support and guidance to current students.
• Develop new opportunities for alumni networking, mentorship, and lifelong learning—from graduation through major life transitions.
The Work Ahead
At Taft, we are committed to evolving with purpose, guided by our mission, values, and belief in the potential of every student.
This plan is not an endpoint—it’s a beginning. It provides a clear foundation, but it also calls for continued planning, thoughtful dialogue, and purposeful action.
We know the work ahead will take all of us—faculty, staff, students, alumni, families, and friends—working together. With shared purpose and a deep belief in the power of education, we look forward to building a future that enriches every student’s experience.
Education for Life is more than a phrase. It is our promise to prepare young people to lead lives of meaning and purpose for generations to come.
