Meet the Head of School

At Montgomery School we are proud of our nearly 100-year tradition of educating children. Childhood is the only period in life where growth and development is so dramatic. These years from birth through puberty set the stage for the rest of life and are truly the foundation for lifelong learning, happiness, and success. As we watch our students grow and develop throughout their school years and leave us at graduation, we see that they are uniquely prepared for success in high school, college, and life.

Our vision for the best school environment for children is clear and intentional: Children thrive with and need strong adults in their lives. We know that the partnership we create with families is the most valuable asset that a child can have and ensures that the adults are working together. In addition, our small class sizes and committed teachers provide a challenging and nurturing environment and enable parents to keep in touch with their child’s activities at school.

Montgomery’s mission is to educate our students in Mind, Body, and Character. To that end, the development of the whole child is at the heart of our curriculum, where we support children in developing critical thinking skills that will serve them in all aspects of their lives. The world in which we live is changing faster than ever, that is the only constant, and we are committed to preparing children to be successful in their future.

Our program is structured to meet the developmental growth of children, where academics are balanced with strong arts and physical education curricula. Additionally, the development of character is central to everything that we do. The social, moral, and ethical development of our students is addressed in our everyday interactions, at our family-style lunches and in our non-sectarian Chapel program. Most importantly, Montgomery School teachers know how to bring out the best in children. They do so by encouraging their strengths and supporting them as they encounter new challenges.

Montgomery’s Strategic Plan, developed by the community and approved by the Board of Trustees in January of 2009, is thoughtful and visionary. The four guiding principles: Balance and Integration; Stewardship and Sustainability; Diversity and Inclusiveness, and Community and Citizenship, provide a blueprint for Montgomery in the 21st Century. The world of the future is the world that our children will enter as adults. The Strategic Plan addresses the issues that will be critical in preparing children for success in this global century.

As you browse through our website, you will get a good sense of the School, however, the best way to discover Montgomery is to come for a visit. Many visitors notice that Montgomery students are given leadership opportunities and are encouraged to practice important skills like public speaking. Still others appreciate the impressive display of artwork that lines Bell Hall, the central area of the main Schoolhouse. Whether you first notice our state-of-the-art science and technology labs, our Middle School Harkness classrooms, our exceptional library, or our safe, open, 60-acre campus, you will always find joy on the faces of our students. We are a close community of parents, teachers, and students, and the atmosphere at Montgomery is infused with that special joy of learning that is so unique to independent education. As you tour the school you will see teachers working with children and children playing together. It is the school community at work with the business of raising children that truly represents the spirit of Montgomery School.

Welcome!

Kevin R. Conklin, Head of School

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About Kevin Conklin

BA Lake Forest College
MA Columbia University