Dear Parents,

As my tenure as Interim Head of School comes to a close, I am reflecting on a journey that, while unanticipated at the outset, has provided me with an immense amount of purpose, joy, and connection. This role has been a special culmination of a 25-year career amidst a community that has truly meant everything to me.

Over the last two and a half decades, I have had the unique honor of serving as both a teacher and an administrator. One of the greatest gifts of my time here has been watching so many of your children grow up. There is nothing more rewarding than witnessing a child’s development, from the time they are wide-eyed and just beginning to learn about the world, to the moment they are ready for high school. I am deeply grateful to have had a front-row seat! And of course all of this tremendous growth would not be possible without the most dedicated and passionate teaching and administrative teams. It has been a sincere privilege to work among these special and talented colleagues!  

Beyond my professional roles, this school has also been the foundation for my own family. My two children started their own journeys here in Nursery and are now finishing high school and college. The values, education, and community they experienced at Bernard Zell absolutely shaped who they are today, just as this school has shaped me as a professional.

I want to extend a genuine and heartfelt thank you to our parent community for your partnership, trust, and shared dedication to our students. A school is only as strong as it's community, and your collaboration over the years has been the cornerstone of our success. Whether working together through academic milestones, celebrating community traditions, or navigating challenges, your insights and commitment have continually elevated our school. On a very personal note, your kindness, encouragement, and unwavering support have been a constant source of inspiration and have meant more to me than words can properly express.

As I prepare for my own next phase, I do so with absolute confidence in the school’s future. Our transition process has been thoughtful and robust, and we are so excited to welcome Mitchell Daar in July. I know he will bring the vision, energy, and leadership necessary to guide this remarkable community into its next successful chapter.

Thank you again for 25 wonderful years of collaboration and community. I wish you and your families all the very best.

With love,
Karen Leavitt, Interim Head of School