Head of School's Message — Summer 2018

We ended the 2017-18 school year with joyful celebrations! Awards Night, Baccalaureate Mass and, finally, Graduation itself filled our last week with beauty. And when I reflect on the accomplishments of our Mayfield community over the past nine months, I am filled with pride and gratitude for the excellence in education we all foster for our cherished students.
I want to thank everyone who contributed to our many successes. First to our faculty and staff, who worked with dedication and enthusiasm to make Cornelia Connelly’s educational mission come to life for our students by creating an environment in which each felt nurtured and loved. Throughout the year our parents partnered with us, helping us achieve our goals in support of our beloved girls. Our many benefactors gave generously, and our incredible Board of Trustees contributed their time and talents. In particular we are very grateful for all those of you who participated in our recent “Be Our Heroes” Giving Day!

Most of all, I want to thank the Class of 2018 for making this school year one of the best ever. I will cherish your enthusiasm, your creativity, your openness, and your kindness more than you will ever know. I strive to be like you! I feel such hope as we send these young women out into a world that needs their compassion so badly.

We also say goodbye to some special faculty and staff members. Our Athletic Director, Lynda Gilbert, and our Parents Board Coordinator, Allison Barnes will be retiring after years of dedicated service to our school. In addition, four faculty members, Sam Robinson, Jessica Quinn, Theresia Kleeman, and Shandy Carlson will be leaving Mayfield to pursue exciting career goals. We are grateful for all that these gifted educators have contributed to Mayfield and wish them happiness and success in their new endeavors.

I am anticipating productive summer months as a number of our faculty members will be engaged in developing new projects and initiatives. One group will be working on a plan to strengthen our service programs. Others will be taking a deep look at our ninth-grade curriculum, both to strengthen our writing and research instruction and to devise pedagogy to encourage intellectual risk taking. Our Formation of Self team will also be meeting to evaluate and continually improve this new health and wellness program. Other faculty members will be working together on cross-departmental coordination.

Colleagues will also be attending conferences and workshops. Our math department is partnering with the Center for Mathematics and Teaching to bring their innovative and data-driven program to Mayfield. Additionally, teachers will be preparing two new Advanced Placement courses—Computer Science and Physics—and honing their technology skills. Finally, I’m looking forward to attending the National Coalition of Girls’ Schools’ Global Forum on Girls’ Education.

Despite all this good business and excitement, one of my goals does include taking time to read, relax and reflect. I hope you all have a glorious summer!

With Love and Gratitude,

Kate Morin
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Established in 1931, Mayfield Senior School in Pasadena, CA is a Catholic, independent, college preparatory school for young women grades 9-12. Noted for its rigorous academic program, which includes 28 Advanced Placement and Honors courses, Mayfield’s curriculum is underscored by a philosophy of educating the “whole child,” which also encourages commitment to and excellence in the arts, athletics, community service and spiritual growth. The nurturing environment at Mayfield Senior School allows each student to flourish in an atmosphere of personal attention.