Dear Country Day community,

Last week, our Head of School, Rob Hereford, shared the news with our community of his decision to step down at the end of this academic year, in June 2026. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to express our appreciation to Rob for his leadership and the indelible mark he will leave on Country Day. While we will miss his presence, we support his decision and are excited for him as he embarks on this new chapter as Director at the University School of Nashville, a role he will begin on July 1, 2026.

Rob began his tenure as Country Day’s 10th Head of School in July 2021, bringing with him a deep understanding of our traditions and culture, as well as a bold vision for the future. Rob’s connection to Country Day runs deep. Many of you will remember his previous tenure as Country Day’s Upper School Principal, a position he held from 2003 to 2006, during which he helped our students navigate the inherent challenges of Hurricane Katrina and played a vital role in supporting them through their displacement and return to Country Day.

Rob’s return to lead Country Day as Head of School was a homecoming of sorts, and his leadership over the past five years has strengthened our school and its community in countless ways. From navigating a return to normalcy after the COVID-19 pandemic to leading the school to new heights, marked by significant milestones such as the establishment of the Country Day Portrait of a Graduate, the implementation of Mind, Brain, and Education teaching strategies across all divisions, the completion of Freedom Field, the renovation of the Robert J. Patrick Family Gymnasium, the expansion of the Pre-K program in Bart Cottage, and the launch of the Center for Civic Engagement. His vision and dedication have placed Country Day in a strong position, well-prepared for continued success as an exceptional academic institution. 

The Country Day Board of Trustees is diligently working to plan for the future of Country Day and identify our next Head of School. With best practices in mind, the Board has assembled a Search Committee, which will be co-chaired by me and current Board Treasurer Jonathan Katz ‘98. The following additional individuals have agreed to serve:

Gerry Barousse ‘76

David Bergeron

Mary Beth Benjamin ‘11

Nihal Godiwala

Deb Knight

LaTresha White

Paxton White ‘95

Our next step in the process will be to hire a consulting firm to guide us through the search itself. We have reviewed proposals from several firms and will be conducting final interviews next week. Once a firm is selected, we will share more details about the upcoming search process for identifying our next Head of School. We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition and to finding a leader who will build on the strong foundation Rob has established.

We have the remainder of the school year to celebrate Rob and acknowledge his dedication to Country Day over these past years. In the meantime, please join me in congratulating Rob and his family as they prepare for this exciting new chapter.

Sincerely,

Robyn Schwarz

Chair of the Board of Trustees