Dear Perspective reader,

Kent Denver is, and always has been, a school that never rests in our efforts to constantly improve. One of the challenges of leading such a dynamic school community, however, is striking the appropriate balance between tradition and innovation. Doing so requires an appreciation of the rich history of the school, as well as a vision for what our students need as they look to their future. 

In working to manage this tension, I tend to view the various aspects of how we function as a school through one of three lenses. The first is determining what is classic, and supports what has always been, and should always be, at the heart of the Kent Denver experience. The second is acknowledging what is antiquated, and no longer helps us to accomplish our goals as a school. The third is clarifying what is aspirational, and helps to set a course for where we are headed as a school.

When I consider what it is truly classic about Kent Denver, I cannot help but think of the legacy of outstanding educators who continue to impact our students in meaningful ways. To that end, this edition of Perspective highlights the incomparable Judy Graese who, this past spring, concluded a phenomenal 55 year tenure at Kent Denver. Through her dedication to our students and our school, Judy has set a standard that might never be duplicated in terms of longevity but will undoubtedly be emulated by colleagues present and future.

In terms of what is antiquated, we began a major renovation of the Gates Science and Magness Technology Center this summer. In a perfect word, our programs should dictate our facilities and not be limited by them. Through this project we are pursuing this ideal in ways that will significantly enhance how we can approach the sciences. 

As for the aspirational, we can take our lead from Jeff Ellenoff ‘12, whose involvement with SpaceX speaks to the ambitious, forward thinking qualities that we hope to develop in our students and to model as a school. From our new entrepreneurial pitch competition to the work that a cohort of our faculty did this summer to explore how AI can enhance teaching and learning at Kent Denver, we are actively pursuing new possibilities as we look to the future.

Ultimately, it is this ability to actively balance tradition and innovation that sets Kent Denver apart as a school and helps us to realize our Mission of transforming lives of students and community through extraordinary educational experiences. It is also what makes being part of this school community so much fun.

Warm regards,

David J. Braemer
Head of School

In a newer KDS tradition, the Head of School hosts a spring visit and story time for the preschool class from the school's employee Childcare Center, which opened in 2007.