Head of School

The students engaged their teachers’ initial questions tentatively and moved on to smaller groups, slowly making sense of the challenge in front of them. As the teachers guided the learning, from struggle to growing comprehension, the 3rd graders began to use and eventually model their data. Throughout the lesson, the children complemented their seriousness of purpose with big smiles of engagement. This example reflects what we mean when we talk of joyful learning and productive struggle at Town: the opportunity to struggle with a challenge, to take risks and learn from the outcomes, to have confidence in your abilities as a learner and collaborator, and to feel the deep satisfaction of working through a difficult problem. This is the best path to lifelong learning, and this is something Town is uniquely positioned to instill in your child. 

What's magical about our school is that joyful learning happens across classrooms, disciplines, and grade levels, all the time. I am so proud to lead this school and to be a teacher and parent in this community. Our school motto is not a charge but a lived experience. Our teaching is informed and supported by 112 years educating children; our commitment to an equitable and inclusive school community; and an accomplished, dedicated faculty, who are lifelong learners themselves, drawing from the best research and practice. We believe that this is the environment in which children learn best. This approach is what distinguishes us, and our students.

And this is why I am here, as Town’s Head of School. After more than 25 years teaching in and leading independent schools, I marvel at Town’s intelligent, committed, collaborative efforts that place our students at the center of their learning. Whether in the science lab, on the stage, at a robotics tournament, on the basketball court, or when engaging with our local community through our Civic Engagement program, Town students are confident and accomplished risk-takers, leaders, problem-solvers, scholars, and citizens. Town alumni/ae, in turn thrive in high school and beyond, as scholars, citizens and leaders.

Our website captures the highlights of a Town education, yet to experience our approach to teaching and learning, along with its impact, you need to meet the outstanding people who make our school such a special place. When you visit our school, you will see joyful learning and productive struggle in action. 112 years and counting, Town continues to be the best version of itself and we all look forward to welcoming you, showing you how! 

Douglas Brophy
Head of School
Parent, Class of 2025