RUMSON – The Rumson Country Day School is pleased to have begun its 88th academic year under the leadership of Head of School Whitney C. Slade.
Slade recently succeeded Chad B. Small, who retired after 25 years at RCDS, to become the school’s seventh head of school since its founding in 1926. Slade was hired by the school’s board of directors in October 2013, and he began his tenure on July 1.
“I am thrilled to have been welcomed into this community with such enthusiasm and support, and I am pleased to say that we are already off to a great start of the new school year,” Slade said.
“It is fantastic to see such a seamless transition from one exceptional head of school to another in the RCDS community,” said Shawn Reynolds, president of the RCDS Board of Trustees. “Having hired such a dynamic and committed professional, we were confident that both students and teachers would be energized by Whitney’s arrival.”
Prior to coming to RCDS, Slade spent 16 years as the head of school at St. Michael’s Country Day School in Newport, R.I. Having earned his master’s in education from Harvard University before gaining 25 years of leadership experience at the preschool though eighth-grade level, he has cultivated an approach to education that emphasizes innovation while respecting tradition.
“More than anything, students must be challenged to think for themselves,” Slade said. “We want students to be creative problem solvers and nimble thinkers, as the world they will enter will place a high premium on these skills.”
Faculty and parents alike are excited about the new era beginning at the school. Students were glad to see the tradition continue where the head of school greets students by name with a handshake at the front door each morning.
“I know my kids enjoy the personal greeting every day. What better place to send your children to learn and grow than a place that feels like home?” said Jennifer Crowell ’88, parent council president and parent of three students at the school. Slade was eager to continue this valuable morning tradition.
“Getting to know each of our 432 students as individuals is one of the most important steps in helping them thrive as learners who can advocate for themselves,” he said.
Director of Admissions Kevin Nicholas added, “Having been a teacher here for years and now working in admissions, I’m focused on the internal and external perception of the school, and I couldn’t be more positive about the changes we are already making to continue enriching the RCDS experience. Students and teachers are very supportive of the new head of school and his innovative approach to education, emphasizing challenging academics and a well-rounded education in a safe and secure learning environment.”
