Dear Gordon Faculty and Staff,

I write to you today to share a few thoughts as Gordon School—a school I am so honored to lead alongside you all in a few short months—finds itself in the midst of an unexpected transition. 

Any change can be challenging, and it is even more so when it is unexpected and unsettling. It is important to acknowledge that no one expected the remainder of this school year to look the way it does now. It is also important to give yourselves permission, time, and space to process all of the thoughts and feelings that might be present for you in this moment.

The irony of unsettling change is that it often leads to reflection, growth, and renewed purpose. Change can be a catalyst. I don’t know of any other profession that manages change as often or as successfully as educators: a new group of students every year, a new unit every couple of weeks, children literally growing and changing before our very eyes, the different rhythm of different times of year, and so on. The examples of how educators manage change are endless. And through it all, your dedication, resilience, professionalism, passion, talent, and impact on Gordon students and families, and each other, shine brightly even from afar.

One of the many things that made me fall in love with Gordon is the fact that Gordon’s strength is its community. I want to reassure you that we will all be on this journey together. I encourage us all to lean on Gordon’s shared values, deep sense of purpose, and belief in the incredible work you do each and every day. The educator’s spirit, even in uncertain moments, is full of hope. Ours is a vocation inextricable from hope. I know that Gordon will continue to thrive in this moment, and I am confident in the stability of the structures, systems, and processes in place. 

In this moment, I could not envision a better team to lead Gordon on the journey to June than Alethea, Tom, and Veronica. Gordon Green runs in their veins, and they are committed to ensuring that the remainder of this year is as seamless as it can be. I am in regular contact with the leadership team and the Board, and will continue to connect with them so that we are ready to roll on July 1st. We are all here to support each other, and I have every confidence that we can move forward with grace.

While I cannot yet be on campus with you every day, I want you to know that the Gordon community is always on my mind. (Since the early fall, I have used my Gordon bookbag as my school bag, much to the feigned irritation of my colleagues at Rye Country Day!) I can’t wait to get to campus to learn about, from, and with you; to dig into and contribute to the meaningful work that Gordon does every day; to support you and to celebrate you. 

Thank you for your work, your presence, and your commitment to Gordon’s mission. I am so grateful for all you will be holding until I can join you in July. I am honored to be your colleague and on this journey with you.

With you all the way,