AUGUST 2026
Greetings, Beloved MDA Community,
I hope this message finds you well and enjoying the early days of what has already proven to be a remarkable school year. As we draw near the end of our first month back in session, I want to reflect on our successes and share some exciting updates with our dedicated students, families, and staff.
This opening month has been one of fresh beginnings and meaningful connections. We welcomed our students back with joyful reunions, met new families during our Open Houses, and set the tone for a year of high expectations and shared purpose. Across all grade levels, our classrooms have come alive with curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Students have already demonstrated their talents through the Secondary School Debate Team, and the first round of MAP testing, each event a reminder of the potential and passion within our community.
I am deeply proud of how our teachers and staff have worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth start, from preparing engaging lessons to fostering a sense of belonging in every classroom. Parents, your presence, encouragement, and involvement continue to strengthen the partnership that makes MDA truly exceptional. Together, we are laying the foundation for a year of growth, achievement, and joy.
As we move into the new month, we look forward to many important moments: progress reports for Middle and High School to help track academic growth; Jewish holiday observances, including Rosh Hashanah, that provide opportunities for reflection, gratitude, and renewal; and athletic and cultural events that showcase the diverse talents of our students, from intercollegiate competitions to the Primary School Tribes Ceremony.
Each of these moments is a chance to deepen our learning, strengthen our values, and grow closer as a community. Let us enter this new month with a spirit of unity, purpose, and joy, holding one another accountable to our shared standards and Raising the Bar in the process. Thank you for entrusting us with the privilege of educating and guiding your children. It is an honor I hold with great humility and gratitude. Together, we will continue to make this year one to remember.
Blessed Regards,
Dr. Raymond J. Schmidt
Head of School
AUGUST 2026
Greetings, Beloved MDA Community,
I hope this message finds you well and enjoying the early days of what has already proven to be a remarkable school year. As we draw near the end of our first month back in session, I want to reflect on our successes and share some exciting updates with our dedicated students, families, and staff.
This opening month has been one of fresh beginnings and meaningful connections. We welcomed our students back with joyful reunions, met new families during our Open Houses, and set the tone for a year of high expectations and shared purpose. Across all grade levels, our classrooms have come alive with curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Students have already demonstrated their talents through the Secondary School Debate Team, and the first round of MAP testing, each event a reminder of the potential and passion within our community.
I am deeply proud of how our teachers and staff have worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth start, from preparing engaging lessons to fostering a sense of belonging in every classroom. Parents, your presence, encouragement, and involvement continue to strengthen the partnership that makes MDA truly exceptional. Together, we are laying the foundation for a year of growth, achievement, and joy.
As we move into the new month, we look forward to many important moments: progress reports for Middle and High School to help track academic growth; Jewish holiday observances, including Rosh Hashanah, that provide opportunities for reflection, gratitude, and renewal; and athletic and cultural events that showcase the diverse talents of our students, from intercollegiate competitions to the Primary School Tribes Ceremony.
Each of these moments is a chance to deepen our learning, strengthen our values, and grow closer as a community. Let us enter this new month with a spirit of unity, purpose, and joy, holding one another accountable to our shared standards and Raising the Bar in the process. Thank you for entrusting us with the privilege of educating and guiding your children. It is an honor I hold with great humility and gratitude. Together, we will continue to make this year one to remember.
Blessed Regards,
Dr. Raymond J. Schmidt
Head of School