Welcome, New School Year!

Thousands of smiles and handshakes were exchanged over the first two days of school as students, faculty and staff welcomed those new to the US community during our handshake ceremonies. 

Before heading outdoors for this fun and photogenic tradition, our Hunting Valley and Shaker Campus communities gathered together in their respective auditoriums to reconnect and get set for a successful year. Closing out a three-year series, Head of School Patrick Gallagher shared a new perspective on the third and final word in our motto: consideration. 

At the Shaker Campus, he read the picture book A Sick Day for Amos McGhee by Philip C. Stead. In the story, when Amos stays home sick, the zoo animals he cares for each day return his kindness and consideration by caring for him. Yes, an elephant even trundles out of the zoo and comes to his house for a game of chess—as can only happen in the imagination.

At the Upper School, he invited all to consider the depth and breadth of the word and its meaning. As an everyday habit, being considerate is "to be kind and thoughtful," he said. Then, sharing part of Dr. Jane Goodall's life in service, he illustrated a more expansive view of the idea. You can read his full remarks here. 

In the spirit of growth exemplified by Dr. Jane Goodall, he asked everyone gathered Thursday morning to reflect on the importance of our motto and appreciate and practice the deeper meaning of consideration in particular. 

Welcome back! We wish all our students, families, faculty, and staff a wonderful and fulfilling 2026-27 school year!