From the Desk of Henry D. Berg

August 15 , 2011

 

I always enjoy the summer and the varying rhythms which distinguish it from the school year, yet it was hard to survey the national landscape this summer without feeling a sense of unease in the face of political divisiveness and economic turmoil.  The tragic loss of 30 Special Forces troops on August 5, then, seemed almost unbearable.  And yet as I read the profiles of these remarkable individuals, I was buoyed by the character and dedication of these soldiers who put larger principles and the collective good first. Their integrity was affirming, inspirational.  In 2007, we established the school-wide character theme as a way to develop character in our students and this year our character theme is integrity.  If there is one word synonymous with character, it is integrity.  Its meanings capture honesty and soundness. It means a state of being whole, entire, undiminished; it has a deep-in-the-marrow quality that is not developed without intent. I think it is a particularly timely word for this year and I look forward to discussing it as a community.

 

While we face challenges in the current economy, the community support of the Highland vision has never been stronger. We have raised $16,000,000 in capital and endowment gifts since the campaign formally began in 2008.  Last September, we celebrated the opening of the new William A. Hazel Family Lower School. This LEED designed facility allows us to provide the highest quality program for our youngest students; already the space is attracting attention and enrollment in the primary grades has substantially increased.  The Middle School renovation is on schedule to begin mid-year with the aim of being completed in the fall of 2012.  Additionally, we have replaced the tile floor in the Arundel Gym with a safer and more appropriate surface and have plans to air condition that space.

 

Thoughtful strategic planning has guided Highland from the addition of the Upper School and the construction of the Center for the Arts, to substantial changes in our academic program facilities and campus over the past five years.  The new 2011-2016 Strategic Plan, to be distributed this fall, focuses on sustainability and the enrichment of academics, arts and athletics within the objectives of educating for the 21st Century.  There are gains to be made in efficiency of operation and good stewardship of Highland’s resources and we will collectively pursue these vital objectives.

 

Our structural improvements are impressive, but we all know the strength of a school is the faculty and staff who deliver the program.  I continue to be humbled by the talent and dedication of our faculty and staff, and the commitment of our parents.  This summer, our investment in professional development was greatly supported by the Parents Association as a number of faculty attended workshops and programs, the particulars of which will be featured on the Highland School website in September.  This year, we welcome eight new faculty and staff. Already in the office are three new members of the Administration.  Mike Megless brings a wealth of experience as our new Business Office Director as Erin Edwards allocates more of her time to summer programs; Archie Catalfamo, a former Highland history teacher and Dean of Students,  returns to us as the Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Programs; he will also assist in Upper School admissions.  I know many of our alumni will be pleased to have him back.  Learning Specialist Lee Ann McVane casts an even wider net this year with her energy and expertise as she directs our Learning Center.

 

I remain grateful for the integrity and support of the Highland School community, and I look forward with excitement to the start of the 2011-2012 school year. See you on campus!

 

 

 

Henry D. Berg,
Head of School

Top of Page