At Good Hope Country Day School, strong leadership begins with understanding the daily experiences of our students and teachers. During Trustee Day, members of the Board of Trustees spent time on campus stepping into classrooms, observing lessons, and engaging with students and faculty to gain a deeper appreciation for the vibrant learning community they support.
The day began in the Pavilion with Friday Gathering, where trustees joined the school community for a joyful celebration led by our second grade class honoring the Lunar New Year. Students shared cultural traditions, performances, and insights into the holiday, creating a lively and meaningful start to the day. Student guides Lu Joseph and Asia Williams then helped lead trustees across campus as they moved through classrooms to experience learning firsthand.
Throughout the morning, trustees visited a variety of classes that highlighted the depth and breadth of the GHCDS academic program. They observed Mr. Greenidge’s 9th Grade Ancient World History class, where students explored early civilizations and historical perspectives. In Ms. DeRuyter’s Personal Finance class, trustees saw practical life skills in action as students discussed financial literacy and real-world decision-making.
In the Lower School, trustees spent time with Ms. Deevy’s First Grade class, witnessing the curiosity and foundational learning that shape our youngest Panthers. They also visited Mr. Chapman’s Third Grade Computer Science class, where students demonstrated how technology and problem-solving are integrated into early STEM education.
Additional visits included Ms. Capriola’s Spanish class, Ms. Hutchins’ A-Level Marine Science course, Ms. Boehke’s Sixth Grade Math lesson, and Library Science with Ms. Alma. Trustees also returned to the Second Grade classroom with Ms. Lambert, seeing more examples of the creativity and enthusiasm that define the Lower School experience.
During lunch, trustees gathered with school administrators to reflect on the experience. Many shared how valuable it was to experience campus through the eyes of both teachers and students, gaining insight into the wide range of learning styles, needs, and developmental stages that educators skillfully manage across grade levels. Trustees were also particularly impressed by the integration of technology across the curriculum, from early elementary classrooms through advanced high school courses, supporting innovative teaching and dynamic learning.
Trustee Day served as a powerful reminder that the Board’s role is not only to guide the strategic direction of the school, but also to stay closely connected to the daily life of the community it serves. By spending time in classrooms and interacting directly with students and teachers, trustees gain valuable perspective that informs their leadership and decision-making.
We extend our sincere thanks to our Board of Trustees for their continued dedication to Good Hope Country Day School and for taking the time to engage so thoughtfully with the learning happening across our campus every day. Their commitment helps ensure that GHCDS remains a place where students can thrive, explore, and grow.
