Welcome
to Providence Country Day School’s website. As a newcomer myself to the
PCD community, I feel a kinship with the prospective students and
parents -- and I look forward to the day when I've 'gone native' and
have experienced all that is distinctive about our school. Until then,
my eyes and ears are open as I look and listen for all that is unique
about this important school. Already, I can tell that PCD is a special
place, unlike many typical independent schools.
For me, one of the most telling aspects of any school is the way people
interact with one another – the way students, teachers, parents, and
staff connect and communicate. The first time I visited the PCD campus, I
was immediately struck by a sense of collaboration and participation.
It was clear that this is a place where all cooperate for a common goal –
to create a learning environment where students feel free to take
appropriate risks.
As I’ve grown more familiar with PCD through the transition, I’ve
learned that at the heart of this supportive atmosphere is the
relationship between inspiring teachers and motivated and engaged
students. Students are not just challenged and nurtured, but also they
are encouraged to find the broader relevance of their studies and
activities. As a result, PCD students pursue more than just a
challenging course of academic study to prepare them for success at
competitive colleges and universities; they pursue life.
We recognize that what our students learn today prepares them for more
than their college experience. What they learn here at PCD helps shape
who they become in 20, 40, even 60 years. We want to cultivate in our
students important tools like problem solving, analysis, creative
thinking and clear communication skills, but we also want our students
to live lives of honor, duty, courage, and kindness. We want them to
become leaders.
I hope you’ll explore our site to learn more about PCD and its people
and programs, but my greatest hope is that you will come visit our
campus. Just as I did a few months ago, I believe you, too, will see
firsthand the school’s dedication to leadership and learning for life.
I look forward to meeting you.
Vince Watchorn
Head of School