New Canaan Country School is a co-ed, independent day school that aims to form the foundation for happy and healthy adults who make a positive contribution to the world. It serves approximately 600 students in pre-K (ages three and four) through ninth grade. At the center of Country School’s approach is a belief that rigorous academics can be taught in creative, collaborative, and dynamic ways. For students, this approach piques natural curiosity, inspires joy in learning, and elicits the unique, personal strengths of each child.
At Country School, learning is woven together in inextricable ways combining math, science, literature, world cultures and languages, creative arts, and athletics to examine real-world problems and ethical dilemmas through multiple lenses. Deep learning is achieved through a cyclical process that builds and broadens to more advanced levels as students are ready. Thoughtfully layered on top and in between are character skills such as teamwork and time management. Each step of the way, students are building a solid foundation for the future with ample time to practice, to try and fail, to try again and succeed.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Head of School, the Senior Director of Advancement/Director of Advancement will lead the development of a comprehensive fundraising plan that optimizes the best of the School’s resources, which include a committed and engaged Board of Trustees, an intelligent and experienced Head of School, an outstanding faculty and staff, and a strong foundation of philanthropic support. The Country School is special in every way, and we seek a similarly special advancement professional. This role is ideal for a quick, witty, experienced, intelligent, and thoughtful development leader. Just as the students are thriving at the Country School, so, too, is the school under the new leadership of Head of School Aaron Cooper. At this moment in the School’s history, the Board of Trustees, Aaron, and the School community are seeking a highly knowledgeable and experienced fundraiser and manager with a demonstrated passion for independent education and a commitment to advancement excellence. Individuals of conviction and confidence with experience working with families from high net worth communities are preferred.
