From the Desk of the Head of School: Living our Core Values: Support & Community

Ransom Everglades offers so much to its students: an unsurpassed curriculum (as shared in this newsletter by Dr. John King, Associate Head of School); exciting pathways to colleges and universities worldwide; and opportunities to find new passions, hone skills and serve others. These are some of the reasons Spear’s Schools Index rated Ransom Everglades one of the top 19 schools in North America and among the top 100 in the world in 2024. (RE was the only Florida school recognized.)

But perhaps the best thing RE offers isn’t fully experienced until after students depart: It is a vibrant, welcoming community for life. The research on the mental and general health benefits of community and social connectedness runs long and deep. It was decades ago that American psychologist Abraham Maslow postulated in his five-tier hierarchy of needs that our desire for belonging is surpassed only by the need for safety and physiological sustenance. Many alumni tell us that the RE network is stronger than any collegiate or professional connection. Whether through support and encouragement, mentoring, job opportunities or professional networking, members of our community feel the power of an RE education long after they depart the Ransom Campus. 

What is the best way to experience the splendor of the RE community? Get involved! You don’t have to be a student or alum to dive in; parents, parents-of-alumni, grandparents – current and former – are also invited. There is so much in which to partake. We were so delighted to welcome dozens of new parents to a series of new-parent receptions in the last few weeks. Many others have visited during our new “Coffee with Dr. [Don] Cramp” events at the upper school with our new Head of the Upper School. This week, RE students are partnering with the Joshua’s Heart Foundation – founded by 2024 Founders’ Award recipient Joshua Williams ’18 – and donating toiletries for families in Coconut Grove. RE students and alumni will distribute the items on Saturday in the parking lot of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church. 

We are also creating a database of job and internship opportunities for our young alumni; if your company has an opening or opportunity and you need a young person of the highest caliber, please fill out this form so we can connect you with RE alumni. All alumni should join REconnect, the online vehicle that enables them to stay in touch with fellow alumni and be apprised of events and opportunities.

There are shows, cultural events, games and speakers on our campuses throughout the year, and Homecoming 2024 will take place on September 20. On that night, you can watch our girls’ volleyball team (4 p.m.) and football team (7 p.m.) while socializing with old friends and new ones. There will be food trucks and fun – please come! (Register here, and let us know if you are a former varsity athlete so we can welcome you. Also, find details on our clear bag policy and other security measures).

Rachel Rodriguez
Head of School