New Division Heads Take the Helm at City and Country School
Today, City and Country School, a leader in progressive education since 1914, welcomed David Andrew Wood as Director of Lower School and Jennine Rodriguez as Director of Middle and Upper School.
These appointments follow the retirement of longtime Lower School Director Jane Clarke and the transition of former Middle and Upper School Director Karen Brandt to a consulting practice focused on health and wellness.
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"David and Jennine bring exceptional leadership experience and a deep understanding of progressive education, including how to balance rigorous academics with the joy of discovery," said Dr. Frank Patti, Principal of City and Country School. "Their expertise will build on our strong foundation as we continue to nurture confident, curious learners who make a positive impact in the world."
David Andrew Wood joins City and Country from The Town School, where he served as Director of Lower School. With nearly 15 years of lower school leadership experience, Wood has focused on building inclusive learning communities and supporting curriculum development across grade levels. At The Town School, he launched an Associate Teacher program to mentor new educators and ensure seamless grade-level transitions.
"I'm excited to join a school with such a rich history of honoring children's natural curiosity," said Wood. "City and Country's commitment to experiential learning aligns perfectly with my belief that young learners thrive when they can explore, create, and connect their learning to the world around them."
Jennine Rodriguez comes to City and Country from Westland School, a progressive institution in Los Angeles, where she served as Assistant Head of School for Teaching, Learning, and Development. Prior to Westland she was Head of Early Childhood and Elementary divisions at a PreK-8th grade school in San Jose, CA. Rodriguez has dedicated her 25+ year career to creating environments where students develop confidence and agency. Her experience includes curriculum design, faculty development, and student advocacy programs.
"Learning should be active, reflective, and purposeful," said Rodriguez. "I look forward to working with City and Country's talented faculty to help our oldest students develop the critical thinking and independence they need to thrive."
Both appointments support the school's strategic priorities as it approaches its 112th year of operation.
Founded in 1914, City and Country School is an independent school in Greenwich Village serving children from age 2 through 8th grade. The school integrates rigorous academics with experiential learning, creativity, and social responsibility. Each year, over 100 educators visit City and Country to learn about progressive education best practices, with 2025 visitors representing three continents.
