Strategic Plan

A PATH TO DISTINCTION
STRATEGIC PLAN 2024–2034


We are delighted to share this next phase of our strategic planning work with you. Evolutionary in nature, and building on the strengths of our 2018 strategic plan, Waterford Rising: A Path to Distinction represents our conviction that a relentless commitment to supporting a world-class faculty, a rich student experience, and the resources to elevate both, are the keys to deepening the impact of our transformational liberal arts learning experience.

Since its founding in 1981 Waterford School has remained boldly committed to the idealism of an educational experience that prepares students to lead lives of meaning and purpose. In a world more interdependent and interconnected than at any time in human history, our new strategic plan reaffirms our commitment to the breadth of the liberal arts and its profound durability to stimulate intellect, ignite passion, shape character, and inspire a life-long love of learning.

As you review the strategic plan, you will learn about our aspirations to enhance our learning environment in, and out of the classroom, continue to attract, retain, and professionally grow the best teaching talent in the country, and expand our resources to ensure ongoing investment in our people and programs. 

Buoyed by strong partnerships with all in our community, Waterford School builds on an unprecedented level of health as we excitedly look boldly forward, together!

With every good wish,

Andrew Menke
Head of School


THREE STRATEGIC PILLARS
& TEN GOALS IN TEN YEARS:

ESTABLISH THE PREEMINENT LIBERAL ARTS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL EXPERIENCE 
IN THE NATION

  • Create a signature Waterford School liberal arts curriculum that includes core texts, experiences, and content unique to each grade level
  • Integrate a consistent liberal arts pedagogy emphasizing thinking, analysis, discussion, and writing across all disciplines
  • Establish an institutional stance of objectivity on political questions and matters of public controversy
  • Develop new and innovative programming to foster student resilience in pursuit of liberal arts excellence

ESTABLISH A CENTER FOR TEACHING EXCELLENCE IN THE LIBERAL ARTS

  • Build a best-in-class teacher recruitment and retention program
  • Develop a teacher training and professional growth program for new, mid-career, and experienced teaching faculty

STRENGTHEN LONG-TERM FINANCIAL HEALTH & GROW OPERATING REVENUE TO SUPPORT WORLD-CLASS LIBERAL ARTS LEARNING

  • Establish a 25% operating budget reserve
  • Grow our endowment to $50M
  • Re-envision the campus master plan to support our strategic goals
  • Expand market share and competitive geographic position through strategic partnerships