Announcement from Head of School Cobb Atkinson
Westchester Country Day School Head of School Cobb Atkinson shared the following message in an email to Westchester parents, faculty, alumni and friends:
This fall I began my thirteenth year as Westchester’s head of school, and when I think back to the beginning of my time here, I don’t know if I could have ever imagined how meaningful and rewarding the years to follow would be. It has been my greatest honor to work alongside the most dedicated and innovative faculty and staff any head could ever hope for, to teach such inquisitive and passionate students, and to partner with such a supportive and engaged parent and alumni community and Board of Trustees. It is with a heart full of gratitude for all the opportunities Westchester has afforded me that I now share the news that, because of some health challenges I am facing, I have notified the Board of Trustees to begin a search for a new head of school. I look forward to doing all that I can to assist the Board in a seamless transition of leadership and to keep Westchester moving forward in its great work. We began this school year with wonderful momentum and positivity, and I am committed to working with the faculty and staff to continue to provide a school year filled with the extraordinary teaching and learning for which we are known. I am confident that Westchester’s future is bright, and as a parent of a member of the Class of 2024, I look forward to supporting our new leader in the way you have supported me. |
Atkinson, who is the longest-serving head in the school’s 55-year history, came to Westchester from Georgia in 2010 after holding positions as head of school, academic dean, English department chair and teacher. Under Atkinson’s leadership, Westchester has continued its tradition of academic excellence while producing impressive graduating classes with 100% college acceptance and millions of dollars in scholarship offers each year.
Emphasizing an “Each Child, Every Day” approach to student learning, Atkinson’s time as head has included new technology initiatives, upgrades to the school’s athletic and arts facilities, the celebration of the school’s 50th anniversary, construction of the Wilson Student Center, and more. The school has completed two successful five-year reaccreditation cycles in his time and is currently undergoing a third with Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS).
WCDS Board President Laurie Briggs shared the following:
"While we are saddened by the news of Cobb's future relinquishment of his role as head of school, we are so grateful for all of the amazing leadership and guidance he has given WCDS for 13 years in upholding our core pillars of moral, academic, artistic and athletic excellence. We look forward to celebrating the legacy Cobb has created as he makes this transition."
The Board of Trustees will coordinate the search for the next head of school. Information about the process will be announced to the school community as plans are determined.
