July 2, 2026
Dear Harbor Community,

As I begin my first week as Head of The Harbor School, I find myself returning often to the mission that first drew me to this extraordinary community.

The Harbor School’s mission is to celebrate each unique child and to teach them to celebrate this in themselves and in others, supporting our students to become confident, kind, and capable learners as they move from our nurturing, safe Harbor to the wider open seas.

These words continue to resonate deeply with me. They capture what I believe education should be: a place where every child is known, celebrated, and challenged to grow not only as a learner, but also as a thoughtful, compassionate, and courageous human being.

During my recent visits to Harbor and now in my first days as your Head of School, I have seen this mission come to life in countless ways. I see it in the joy and curiosity of our students, in classrooms where teachers thoughtfully honor each child's unique strengths and learning style, and in the strong partnerships among faculty, families, and the school. Everywhere I turn, I am reminded why Harbor is such a special place.

From my very first visit, I found myself returning to the same quiet thought: This feels like home. Now, as I begin this new chapter alongside you, that feeling has only grown stronger. I am grateful for the warm welcome I have received and for the opportunity to become part of this remarkable community.

As we look ahead together, I am excited to build on Harbor's many strengths. Together, we will continue to ensure that every child feels known, valued, and inspired to reach their fullest potential. We will nurture joyful learning, foster curiosity and creativity, strengthen the relationships that make this community so special, and prepare our students not only for academic success, but for lives of kindness, confidence, and purpose.

Over the coming weeks and months, I look forward to getting to know each of you, listening to your stories, celebrating Harbor's traditions, and imagining together the opportunities that lie ahead. I am honored to begin this journey with you, and I look forward to leading, learning, and growing together as we continue to provide every child with a nurturing harbor from which they can confidently sail into the wider open seas.

With gratitude,

Colleen Brown
Head of School