I can earnestly say that at Drew we’ve created a very special culture–one that removes barriers to learning, boosts confidence, and allows students to perform at their best, because we know from our many years of experience (and lots of scientific research, to boot!) that a learning culture that centers academic challenge without overwhelm and fosters self-actualization over toxic competition or comparison, simply makes it easier for students to reach outside of their comfort zone and actualize their unique potential or, as we call it at Drew – to find their voice.
This may sound simple, but make no mistake – it is both precious and rare to find a high school where these values and practices are so centered and alive for students at such an important time of their life.
There is a team of caring, capable and wonderful educators here at Drew that are experts in their content area, and also in working expertly with teenagers – and they are unparalleled in the active care and support they offer students along the way. So, whether you’re really good at something, or just starting out, we encourage you to put yourself out there. And you can do that, because Drew there is a culture where people lift each other up. Where kindness and inclusion and central values. Where belonging does not require conformity.
This coming year, a major project I will steward is the development of a strong and vibrant strategic plan. This presents a tremendous opportunity to truly engage with the community and to set a bright and clear vision for the future. There is already a talented team at work on this, and I can’t wait to launch the year with this project at the forefront. Looking ahead, I imagine that this year will involve us breaking a bit of a sweat, and also laughing and learning a lot together.
Saya McKenna
Head of School
Goals
- Forge strong connections with all school constituencies to establish a visible, collaborative leadership presence.
- Cultivate a vibrant and connected school community that engages around shared purposes: learning, advancing, and innovating at Drew.
- Enhance the school’s identity within the broader community, strengthening local community partnerships and expanding ties within the independent school network.
Lead the school community through an inclusive and dynamic strategic planning process, to gain a deep understanding of Drew's educational and institutional priorities and set a clear vision for the future.
- Engage actively in the daily life and operations of the school.
- Provide calm, steady, and grounded support for unexpected issues.
- Build and support a strong, cohesive leadership team.
- Drive initiatives that enhance institutional growth and mission-aligned student enrollment.
- Maintain thoughtful and intentional use of school communications and leverage media to boost community engagement.
- Foster a culture of respectful communication and dialogue by modeling effective and intentional use of voice.
I recognize the way that culture shapes learning, and also how leadership shapes culture, so at Drew you can count on me to…
- Know and believe in you and Drew. I will celebrate our unique and strong mission, distinguishing the school and building our standing for the future.
- Make meaningful connections.I will gather people together with the intention to build relationships, listen, and engage with many different voices.
- Center the practice of thinking. This is particularly essential in an increasingly complicated and polarized time.
- Elevate teaching.I will always keep students and teachers at the center of our work.
- Work hard and do hard things, with courage and empathy. I will support and empower the human beings that make up our incredible community.
Cultivate joy! I will find and share delight in the daily exercise of learning and leading this precious community.
About Saya McKenna
Saya McKenna, Head of School, is celebrated for her dedication to fostering an environment of interactivity and joy. With more than 20 years of experience in education, Saya has been instrumental in enriching Drew's community through innovative programs and initiatives that emphasize learning, growth, and connection. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence, ensuring every student thrives in a supportive and dynamic environment.
Described as a tireless advocate for students, families, and teachers, Saya's warmth, empathy, and alignment with Drew's values have quickly endeared her to the community since she joined as Assistant Head for Academics in 2022. Following an international search with more than sixty candidates, Saya was unanimously and enthusiastically selected in December 2023 to serve as the next Head of School - effective July 2024.
Saya's approach to education is deeply rooted in her belief in the transformative power of a well-rounded, engaging educational experience. She is a champion of creative expression, interactive learning, and the joy of discovery, constantly seeking ways to inspire both students and faculty. Among the initiatives launched under her academic leadership at Drew include the highly successful Climate Academy and the introduction of an exciting new interdisciplinary Voice + Action course this year. This innovative course, which links U.S. History and English classes for tenth graders, exemplifies the evolution of Drew’s curriculum towards more integrated, experiential learning opportunities.
Saya is a graduate of Stanford University and San Francisco State. Before joining Drew, her extensive career in education - including Interim Head of Upper School, Assistant Head of Upper School, Director of Global Education, and Grade Level Dean at the Head-Royce School in Oakland, CA - equipped her with a wealth of experience in leadership and innovative teaching strategies.