Dear Harbor Families,

The third graders have been preparing for their Moving On Ceremony next week, and as I watch them reflect on their Harbor journeys and prepare for what comes next, I find myself thinking about my own moving-on process. With less than a month remaining as Head of School at Harbor, I have been feeling all the feels - pride in what we have accomplished together, gratitude for the relationships that have shaped my time here, excitement about what lies ahead, and certainly a measure of nostalgia as I prepare to say goodbye to a community that has meant so much to me.

As I reflect on the past eight years, I am reminded that Harbor's greatest strength has always been its people. Together, we have celebrated milestones, navigated challenges, welcomed new families and faculty members, and created a school community where children are known, valued, and loved. Perhaps most of all, I am filled with confidence and excitement about Harbor's future. The Board of Trustees conducted a thoughtful and comprehensive search process and selected an exceptional leader in Colleen Brown.

Over the past several months, Colleen and I have worked closely together to ensure a smooth and successful transition. She has spent time learning about Harbor's culture, traditions, programs, and strategic priorities. We have met regularly to discuss the many aspects of school leadership, and she has connected with faculty, staff, Board members, and families. Tomorrow, Colleen will spend the day on campus with us, starting with the Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast - and she (and I!) hopes to see many of you there. This transition has been approached with great care and intentionality, grounded in a shared commitment to preserving what makes Harbor special while continuing to move the school forward.

I am confident that Harbor's future is bright under Colleen's leadership. She brings deep educational experience, a genuine love of children, strong leadership skills, and a clear appreciation for Harbor's mission and community. Most importantly, she understands that schools are built on relationships, and she is eager to partner with all of you in the years ahead.

One important way you can support Harbor during this transition is by completing the annual family survey if you have not already done so. The survey provides valuable feedback about your experience as a Harbor family and helps school leaders understand what is working well and where opportunities for growth exist. The information gathered this spring will provide an important foundation for Colleen as she begins her leadership and plans for the future. If you have not yet completed the survey, I encourage you to take a few minutes to do so.

Thank you for the trust, partnership, and support you have shown me throughout my time at Harbor. It has been a privilege to serve this community and to witness the growth of so many remarkable children. While Harbor's leadership will soon change, the values that define this school—curiosity, empathy, connection, and a deep respect for childhood—will continue to guide its work.

I look forward to celebrating the final days of the school year with all of you and to cheering Harbor on as it begins this exciting next chapter.

With gratitude,

Leah Musico
Head of School