Introducing C&C’s Director of Curriculum

In a letter to the community yesterday afternoon, C&C’s principal, Dr. Frank Patti, named Laela Rae C&C’s Director of Curriculum.

Dear C&C Families and Colleagues,

After an exhaustive search, I am pleased to introduce Laela Rae as C&C’s Director of Curriculum, starting July 1, 2024. Laela’s enthusiasm for progressive education, demonstrated best practices for creating and implementing student-centered curriculum, and deep commitment to anti-racist teaching made her the ideal fit. In this role, she will be responsible for helping us strengthen the collective educational experience of our students by examining the entire arc of the academic program and vitalizing throughlines in the curriculum. 

Progressive education is the cornerstone of Laela’s impressive 14-year career in education, ever honoring and encouraging students’ curiosities. In addition to significant classroom experience, Laela has led initiatives to design, refine, and implement pedagogical vision and alignment in fully integrated K-8 curricula. Her roles have included Managing Director for Progressive Classroom Culture and Instructional Coach, both at Harlem Village Academies. She also served as Associate Dean of the Progressive Education Institute – a partnership between Harlem Village Academies and Pace University. An Oregonian, Laela earned her Bachelor of Arts in Child and Family Studies at Portland State and her Master of Arts in Teaching from Lewis and Clark Graduate School of Education.

“I am drawn to City and Country School’s long-standing commitment to progressive education that is firmly rooted in a deep respect for children and their capabilities and viewpoints,” said Laela. “I look forward to partnering with division leaders and faculty in support of the best interests of our students and becoming a part of this vibrant community.”

We received nearly 200 applicants nationwide, which narrowed to 20 quarterfinalists, eight semi-finalists, and two exceptional finalists. Thank you to the search committee for their counsel and consideration as we collaborated on what would best benefit our programming, teachers, and, ultimately, our students. Committee members included Anneliese Cooper, Funda Rozen, Jay Frankel, Jeanine West, Julie Clardy, Kim Momoh, and Monica Callenbach. My gratitude extends, as well, to the many faculty, staff, and XIIIs who met with the finalists and provided invaluable feedback. 

Please join me in welcoming Laela to the C&C community.