Welcome
from scott lawrence, Head of School
Welcome to Primary Day!
It is my great pleasure to introduce you to our unique, joy-filled, learning environment. This is a school like no other. For 75 years, we have cultivated the minds and nurtured the spirits of young children from communities throughout greater Washington. Founded as a demonstration school for the Phonovisual Method, a research-based reading program, we are at once traditional and innovative. Ours is a program that is both anchored in a challenging, engaging academic experience and responsive to the ever-changing needs of young learners. In this special place, our children enjoy many accomplishments and forge authentic relationships that last a lifetime.
At Primary Day, learning and teaching are more than the mere enjoyment of collecting and sharing facts; learning is an active experience for all members of our community. We see our students as able teachers and our adults as continuous learners. Our teachers are passionate about their work and dedicated to the children in their care. They understand deeply the value of educating young scholars in ways that respond to individual gifts and capitalize on personal passions. Our children are full of energy, curiosity and promise and a Primary Day education nurtures all three to the fullest. This is the place where a solid foundation, grounded in joy, assures future success. This is who we are.
What our website cannot fully capture, however, is the warmth of this special community. It is this aspect of Primary Day that most families note as the defining characteristic of this school, and it can only be experienced in person. It is my sincere hope that you will schedule a visit to campus to experience, first-hand this wonderful community that we know so well. We look forward to sharing our passions with you.
Warmly,
Scott W. C. Lawrence
S.Lawrence{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org



Our Charge
Mission
The Primary Day School provides young children with the finest education for the most important years. In a warm, embracing community where each child is known and understood, our rich, engaging curriculum is distinguished by academic excellence and designed to inspire curiosity, nurture young hearts and minds, and build strength of character. At Primary Day, we guide our students on their journey to a lasting appreciation of learning and exploration. This is who we are.
philosophy
The faculty and staff of The Primary Day School are dedicated to the principle that success in mastering skills in the primary grades fosters confidence, builds security, encourages independence and creates a positive pattern for the child’s future. The school’s task is to nurture a love of learning in our students. As the children become proficient with the core subjects, they experience pride in their daily accomplishments. Efficient and organized work habits are cultivated for productive, enthusiastic learning. When the educational journey begins with a solid foundation, we believe a good end is assured.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Primary Day is a community dedicated to cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. We welcome, value and respect all students, families, faculty and staff. Exclusively dedicated to early education, we provide our young learners with a safe environment where they can authentically explore, understand and value the characteristics that make each person distinctive. This shared commitment inspires each of us to serve as role models in order that our actions and choices may positively influence the world.
History
In 1944, with the U.S. at war and the nation’s capital struggling to deal with that challenge, three women—Josephine Timberlake, Marie S. Buckley, and Lucille D. Schoolfield—made the unlikely decision to open a school for young children in the Washington, D.C., area. The Primary Day School was founded as a demonstration school for the Phonovisual Method, a unique, phonics-based approach to teaching reading and language arts. For its first decade, Primary Day students learned in space provided by local churches.
The school flourished, and in the 1950s it began planning for a more permanent home. A parent donated land for a school building, a local foundation awarded a grant, other parents helped guarantee a mortgage, and eventually construction began on a new school. In the fall of 1955, Primary Day welcomed the first students to its new campus on River Road in Bethesda, Maryland. It remains the school’s home today as we celebrate 75 remarkable years.
Primary Day continues to advance the legacy of its founders, offering an education that builds skills that are vital for school success, develops confidence in young learners, and fosters a love of learning that will stay with students throughout their lives. And just as important as our efforts to teach reading or math or science is our emphasis on developing character—on helping young children grow up to become good people as well as good learners.
Traditions
Beako
Primary Day's much beloved school mascot, a special bird with magical powers.
Beako Assembly
At assemblies, Beako, in a very quiet voice, has the most amazing things to say. One by one, each child who has had a recent birthday comes up to the stage. Beako, talking in his secret language, whispers a message to the Phonovisual Specialist, who translates for the child. The message is about how much the child has grown, or what incredible things he or she has accomplished, or what exciting adventures lie ahead. Then Beako flies closer to sprinkle his invisible magic powder down the child’s shirt collar. Beako reminds the children that they are unique, worthy, and embraced by Primary Day’s warm and welcoming community. He helps them believe in themselves as people. He gives them reassurance of their remarkable ability to learn and grow.
Beako’s Golden Rule
This simple and timeless principle—treat others the way you would like to be treated—guides how we relate to each other every day.
Colonial Trunk Day
A hands-on history lesson that fascinates children with the things that emerge from a trunk full of Colonial-era artifacts. Part of the Second Grade Colonial America unit.
French Program
A Second Grade program full of French history, culture, and joie de vivre, culminating in a French Brunch that’s magnifique!
"Viva Mexico" Program
Kindergartners celebrate Mexican language, culture, art, music, and food.
Pig’s Party
Pink punch, purple popsicles, and plenty of people prancing in party hats help popularize the ‘p-pig’ sound, one of language learning’s pivotal players.
The Search for the Gingerbread Men
This week-long search in early fall is a way for our newest students to get to know their new learning environment and each other. And by the time they find the elusive Gingerbread Men, three things will have happened. One, this eager group of newcomers will know their new environment inside and out, and will feel confident and comfortable being here. Two, they will know each other—strangers will now be friends. And three, that powerful, engaging, and sometimes magical experience we call a Primary Day education will have begun.
"My PK-er cannot stop talking about this! Every day I get an update, along with the places she visits in the building looking for the Gingerbread Men and the new teachers she meets along the way. What a fantastic way to introduce the little ones to the school building and different staff!" - Anjali Schruefer, Current Parent, Primary Day School
Strategic Plan
At Primary Day, we are excited to celebrate 76 years of the very best of teaching and learning in early education. The Board of Trustees initiated a strategic planning process in 2017 to chart our future course. This comprehensive process included commentary from community members and engagement of a coordinating committee whose voices represented a wide array of constituencies and viewpoints. The cultural and historic fabric of our unique community was explored through every conceivable lens.
After thoughtful review of community insights, we refined the plan to its final form, which was unanimously approved by the Board of Trustees in May, 2019. Our strategic plan builds on the legacy of our founders in ‘real time’. We’ve affirmed and articulated our core values and used them to guide us in developing an increasingly engaging, transformational, and relevant experience for our students and teachers while preserving the unique character of our special school. This document captures all that we aim to do and be as a community of learners, while we build deep connections between people and the passions that give us purpose and joy. This is who we are and how we want to be!
Four strategic pillars will guide Primary Day as we collaborate to realize our mission to the fullest extent possible.
Pillar One: The Program – Building on 75 years of success providing young children with the skills to embrace a lifetime of learning and exploration, Primary Day deepens its dedication to providing the finest education for the most important years.
Pillar Two: The Educators – The success of the Primary Day program depends on its extraordinary educators.
Pillar Three: The Students – Over the past seven decades, our program has cultivated empathy, kindness, resilience, resourcefulness, respect, collaboration and responsibility as part of our unique approach.
Pillar Four: The Community – The formative experience and close-knit community at Primary Day create strong feelings of belonging.
We encourage you to read of the initiatives that operationalize these Pillars in the Strategic Plan here and to learn of our hopes for our future.
Thank you.
Faculty & Staff





I{DOT}Antezana{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x119
Ivan first became associated with Primary Day in 1998 as a contractor. He joined the staff full-time in 2013 as Facilities Coordinator. In his free time Ivan enjoys music, movies and traveling.
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j{DOT}ayers{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Jamie started at Primary Day in 2020. For the last five years she worked at St. Jane de Chantal School as a Pre-K and Kindergarten Teacher. Jamie graduated from High Point University with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in STEM. She grew up in Bethesda where she attended The Academy of the Holy Cross. Jamie is thrilled be part of PDS where she will foster a love and joy for learning with her students. In her free time, Jamie enjoys running, Pure Barre, cooking and spending time with her twin sister Maria.
×m{DOT}booth{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Merren joined Primary Day in 2018. Merren has taught visual arts to elementary and middle school students for more than 20 years, from assemblages to zoetropes. She is a painter and illustrator and began working in fused glass in 2010. Merren enjoys working with young artists because they are open-minded, curious, and enthusiastic. She believes everyone should feel the joy of making something with their own two hands.
×M{DOT}Chiang{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Milly joined Primary Day as the Chinese teacher in 2019 and is a native speaker of both Mandarin and Taiwanese. Since emigrating to the U.S. in 2015, Milly has completed a program for teaching Mandarin as a second language through Taiwan's National Open University, three educational training programs for teaching Mandarin through the Overseas Community Affairs Council of the Republic of China and received Teacher Merit Awards from the Association of Chinese Schools in both 2017 and 2019. She teaches Mandarin at several schools in the area. Milly is committed to helping young students build language skills and cultural awareness that can serve them well throughout their lives.
×A{DOT}Collins{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x114
Alison joined the Primary Day staff in 2014. Prior to Primary Day, she worked as the Admissions Coordinator and taught Pre-K at St. Bartholomew Catholic School in Bethesda. In her free time, Alison enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, reading, and going to the beach.
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M{DOT}Cook{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x111
Maureen’s association with Primary Day began in 2003 when her daughter became a student in Pre-Kindergarten. She served as an active parent volunteer on various committees and as co-chair of the 60th anniversary gala. Maureen joined Primary Day as the Business Manager in 2008 after working as the Director of Marketing for many years in the commercial architecture and interior design industry in Washington, D.C. Maureen has a B.A. in Art History.
×S{DOT}Dandrea{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x129
Susanna began her work at Primary Day in 2013. She was well acquainted with the philosophy and traditions of Primary Day since her son and daughter graduated from Primary Day in 2016 and 2010. Previously, Susanna taught at Horace Mann Elementary School, where she used the Columbia Teachers College Reading and Writing Program as well as Responsive Classroom. Prior to teaching, she was employed by a non-profit association devoted to the education of children around the world through museum programming. Much of her volunteer work has involved activities for children. Susanna enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, traveling, and reading.
×D{DOT}Evans{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x118
Dannette joined Primary Day as a staff member in 2005. She is currently the Executive Assistant to the Head of School and also a member of the Next School Placement Team. Dannette spent eight years in the Admission Office and three years in the Advancement Office. Both of her children attended Primary Day before she began her tenure. As a parent in the Primary Day community, she enjoyed volunteering for many different roles and events over the years. Dannette enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, being outdoors and traveling.
×M{DOT}Gagarin{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x110
Mary has been involved with Primary Day since 1992. She began as a parent of two graduates, and then, for the past eighteen years, has been the Office Manager. Mary was also the creator and director of GRASP (Golden Rule After School Program). She has a Child Development and Curriculum Certification from the State of Maryland and is a graduate of Furman University and Holton-Arms School. Mary and her family enjoy visiting Top Chef and Food Network restaurants throughout the country.
×J{DOT}Gemmell{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x124
Jeanne joined the Primary Day community in 2015. Previously, she supported upper level administration at Sidwell Friends School. Jeanne taught for twenty-six years in independent and public schools, worked six years in admissions at the collegiate level and for five years providing administrative support for upper level managers at independent schools.
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r{DOT}goldstein{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Rina joined Primary Day School in 2019 as a Pre-Kindergarten teacher. Prior to her work here, Rina served as an elementary teacher at independent schools in New York City. She’s excited to work with PDS’s youngest children and to create an environment that fosters a love for learning while exploring the world around them. Rina loves traveling and spending time with her husband and two boys who both attend Primary Day.
×D{DOT}Hansen{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x137
Diane began working at Primary Day in 2000. In STEM, she enjoys exploring science, nature and technology with hands-on projects to explore how things work. Along with the students, Diane curates Primary Day's outdoor garden and greenhouse. Prior to teaching STEM, she taught Pre-K. When her daughter attended Primary Day, Diane was a Girl Scout leader. Before coming to Primary Day, Diane was Projects Coordinator of the New Horizons Arts and Cultural Program at Children’s Hospital in Washington, DC. In her free time, she works as a wildlife rescue volunteer. Diane enjoys gardening, singing, and making miniatures.
×L{DOT}Hendrickson{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x142
Lois began working at Primary Day in 2014. She has worked as a School Nurse for ten years in both public and private schools. She has taught every course in Nursing education except psychiatry at the college level. Lois holds a Vermont State certification in School Nursing. Lois spends her summers and long weekends in Londonderry, VT where she golfs with her husband as much as possible. Also she relishes the time she plays with all her grandchildren.
×K{DOT}House{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x134
Kirsten joined the Primary Day team in 2016. A Primary Day alum, she is delighted to return to the cornerstone of her education and a source of many happy memories. Kirsten has been a classroom teacher for over twenty years. She taught Second Grade and Kindergarten at Grace Episcopal Day School, and Kindergarten and Pre-Kindergarten at Beauvoir, The National Cathedral Elementary School. Kirsten graduated from Holton-Arms School, where her daughter is currently a student.
×J{DOT}Kanarish{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x139
Jaclyn began working at Primary Day in 2014. Before teaching here, Jaclyn taught First, Second and Third grades at Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Rockville, MD and also Primary Multiage at Independent Day School in Tampa, FL. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida.
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p{DOT}kaufman{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Paula started at Primary Day in 2020. For the last eight years she has worked as a teacher in Japan, through the JET teaching fellows program, and the Palestinian city of Nablus. She also taught children in West Virginia and Maine. For her M.A., she was awarded a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship to study in the Netherlands. Paula grew up in Charleston, West Virginia. Her hobbies include writing and making art. She enjoys infusing creativity into her classes. Paula is currently training for a long-course distance Iron Man race in 2021, and plans to bike to school for transportation. Watch out for cyclists; you may see her on the road!
×r{DOT}khreisat | 301-365-4355
Roueida (Rudy) joined PDS in the fall of 2020 as a French Teacher. She is a native of Lebanon who attended French schools growing up. Rudy has her B.A. in Elementary Education from Seton Hall University. She taught Pre-K and Kindergarten at a private Greek school in DC. She started subbing at PDS in 2019 and fell in love with the kids and the school's philosophy of teaching. Rudy is looking forward to going back to teaching and nurturing young minds. She loves to spend her free time with her husband and two kids, traveling, reading, visiting museums and walking.
×M{DOT}Labardee{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x139
Michal Levitas joined the Pre-Kindergarten team at Primary Day in 2015. She taught at Temple Emanuel Early Childhood Center for the previous three years. Michal has particular talents in opera, music, art and theater.
×S{DOT}Lawrence{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x121
Scott Lawrence became the Head of Primary Day School in 2016. From 2011 until 2016, he served as the Head of the Lower School at Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart. He has been an educator of young children for over thirty years. Prior to his tenure at Stone Ridge, Scott worked as Principal at the Seymour Elementary School, Head at St. Thomas School, and Head of the Lower School at Chase Collegiate School, all in Connecticut. A former Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten teacher, elementary librarian and reading consultant, Scott also served on the faculty of both Northwestern Connecticut College and, for nearly 20 years, at the University of St. Joseph, where he taught graduate level courses in Educational Leadership, Curriculum Development and Educational Research. Scott is the proud father of a daughter, Emily, who is married and lives in Boston, and a son, Zachary, who lives with his wife and three dogs in Connecticut. In his time away from school, Scott enjoys traveling, deserted beaches and cooking great meals with friends.
×R{DOT}Manalo{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355
Ryan began working at Primary Day in 2016. He joined Primary Day as a P.E. teacher and Director of Extended Day. He has worked in a variety of educational non-profit organizations serving middle and school age students in schools across Baltimore City and the Washington, D.C. region. He has held positions directing extended day and summer programs, managing staff, and working closely with families. Currently, Ryan is the Director of Diversity and Campus Programs at Primary Day. He is charged with advancing the school's mission to respect diversity, value equity, and foster inclusion among all who come to Primary Day. Ryan is passionate about this work.
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M{DOT}Marks{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355
Michael joined Primary Day in 2014. He earned his Accounting degree from the University of Maryland and is a proud Terp. Michael has worked in both the private and non-profit sectors; however, his most rewarding experience is being in an independent school environment. "The positive energy from the children motivates me and makes for a pleasant work day."
K{DOT}McDanald{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355 x123
Kimberly began at Primary Day as a Pre-Kindergarten Teacher in 1995 and continued in this position until 1998, when her twin daughters were born. She returned to Primary Day as an Admission Associate in 2004 and remained in that position until 2012 when she returned to the classroom; teaching is her true passion. She began her teaching career working at Cashell Elementary School in Olney, MD as a Kindergarten Enrichment Teacher and the Director of the Before and After School Program. Kimberly is a native of Maryland, growing up in Darnestown and later attending Connelly School of the Holy Child, and University of Maryland. In her free time, Kimberly is a volunteer on the pediatric unit at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital and a Member of Kappa Delta Pi. She enjoys spending time with her family, taking long walks with her dog, cooking and traveling.
×L{DOT}McFarland{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x135
Lisa joined the Primary Day staff in 2013. Before coming to Primary Day, she taught Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten at The Haverford School for Boys in Haverford, PA. Lisa has completed her Wilson Reading System Level I Certification. In her free time, she enjoys reading, singing in various vocal groups, and spending time with friends and family. She loves to encourage a love of learning, creativity and independence in her students.
×A{DOT}McFeaters{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x126
Arianna joined the Primary Day faculty in 2004. She received her B.A. in Music from The College of William and Mary, a Master’s Degree in Clarinet Performance from The University of Michigan, and her Music Teaching Certification from The Catholic University of America. Prior to working at Primary Day, Arianna taught music at Rolling Terrace Elementary School, The Pinecrest School in Virginia, The Levine School of Music. She currently maintains a private clarinet studio with students accepted into Montgomery County Honors Bands, Maryland All-State Bands, Potomac Valley Youth Orchestra, and Maryland Classic Youth Orchestra. Arianna has performed with the Capitol Wind Symphony, Capital City Symphony, Washington Symphony, and Maryland Chamber Orchestra. Arianna is married to fellow music teacher and concert saxophonist, Jason McFeaters, and enjoys fishing, skiing, golfing, and spending time with her three boys, Sebastian, August, and Dash!
×L{DOT}Moshyedi{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355
Lori began teaching at Primary Day in 2009. She has been a Pre-K Teacher, an Assistant Teacher, and a Librarian. Lori taught Kindergarten and Second Grade in Pennsylvania and First Grade in Florida before coming to Primary Day. She graduated with a B.S. in Elementary Education from Kutztown University with a concentration in Early Childhood Education. She has completed numerous graduate courses at Lehigh University and Drexel University. Lori’s professional affiliations include Kappa Delta Pi and membership in the National Association for the Education of Young Children. In her free time, Lori enjoys spending time with her children and reading.
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K{DOT}Muldoon{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x132
Kristina joined the faculty of Primary Day in 2008. After a year of teaching Pre-K, Kristina moved to Second Grade where she has been teaching since. Kristina was the Co-Chair of the AIMS Accreditation Steering Committee from 2013-2016. A graduate of Primary Day, Kristina went on to attend Holton-Arms School for ten years before attending Bowdoin College where she majored in Art and Education. She combined her love of art and children by working as a children’s tour guide at the Peary-Macmillan Arctic Museum in Brunswick, Maine. Following college, Kristina completed her Masters Degree in Education from Marymount University, while teaching at The Harbor School in Bethesda. She also spent three years teaching at The Bethesda Community School. Kristina feels lucky to have had rewarding and varied experiences teaching Art, Pre-K, Kindergarten, and Second Grade before returning to teach at her alma mater. Perhaps her proudest accomplishment has been watching her three children follow in her footsteps and attend Primary Day. In her free time, Kristina enjoys running, coaching lacrosse, and most importantly, spending time with her family.
×L{DOT}Najaka{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x140
Lynn has taught at Primary Day since 1989. She taught Pre-K for two years and then moved into the Phonovisual Specialist position, teaching Phonovisual to Kindergarten and First Grade. She conducts Phonovisual workshops for parents and for teachers at other independent schools in the area. Lynn is also the yearbook coordinator for Primary Day, working with parents to develop a yearbook for Second Grade students. She started her teaching career in Frederick County, VA as a First Grade teacher upon graduating from Shepherd University. While at Primary Day she completed her graduate degree from Hood College in Early Childhood Education. Both of her children graduated from Primary Day. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering in the Family Ministry at her church, traveling, reading and spending time with her family.
×p{DOT}olave{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Paz began working at Primary Day in 2018. She is both a native of Uruguay and a native Spanish speaker. Paz has a master’s degree in teaching Spanish as a foreign language as well as a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and graduate certifications in learning disabilities in Uruguay. For the past 15 years she has been teaching Spanish to students of all ages. Paz understands that teaching a language is also teaching the culture of the Spanish speaking world. In her free time, she enjoys being with her husband and three children spending time outdoors, camping, sailing and visiting museums.
×K{DOT}Reiner{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Karen joined The Primary Day School community as a PE teacher in 2017, bringing with her years of experience in health and fitness. Prior to teaching at PDS, Karen managed several gyms and worked as a Pre-K teacher in southern California, where she also developed the physical education curriculum for students enrolled in the extended day program. With a passion for helping others live healthier and happier lives, Karen also works as an independent Health and Fitness Coach, and in her spare time enjoys spending time with family, continuing education courses, trail running and yoga.
×a{DOT}roach{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Adam Roach joined Primary Day as Librarian in 2017. The son of a teacher, Adam has worked in schools since he was a student, himself. After teaching Middle School Language Arts for six years, he made the transition to School Library Media in 2013 and has worked in public, private, and charter schools throughout Washington, DC and Virginia. In his free time, Adam works to raise money for hospitals in DC with the Extra Life charity organization. Adam is the father of one son and a daughter, and lives with them and his wife, Margaret, in DC.
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A{DOT}Schoenfeld{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x134
Ashley began working at Primary Day in 2013. Prior to coming to Primary Day, Ashley worked at St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School in Alexandria, Virginia as a Kindergarten Teaching Assistant, Substitute Teacher, and Staff Member in the Extended Day Program. She has spent the last 15 Summers working as a Teacher and Counselor at Holton-Arms Creative Summer Camp. She enjoys the variety of classes she has taught at Creative Summer and currently teaches a jewelry making class. Ashley grew up in Bethesda. She is a graduate of Norwood School and St. Andrews Episcopal Day School. She holds a Bachelors of Arts Degree in English from Principia College and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Marymount University.
×c{DOT}schoenfeld{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Cameron joined Primary Day in 2016 as a member of the GRASP staff. After graduating college with a degree in Theatre, she spent a year workshopping a new musical based on the children's book series Petalwink the Fairy. During this experience, she had the opportunity to tour the Midwest performing the musical and educating children in theatre. During the summer, Cameron also works as a camp counselor at Holton-Arms Creative Summer. In addition to working at Primary Day, she owns a pet care business called "Crazy4Pooches". She is thrilled to continue working at Primary Day as a teacher in the GRASP program.
×l{DOT}solovey{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Lori's connection to Primary Day began in 2014 when her oldest son entered Pre-K. Her younger two sons followed and Lori's husband is a proud PDS alum. Prior to joining the staff at PDS Lori held several leadership volunteer positions. She earned her B.S. degree in elementary education at the University of Maryland and taught in Montgomery County public schools for many years before launching a tutoring firm that continues to operate in the DC Metro area. Lori enjoys reading, cooking, exercise classes and spending time with her family.
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C{DOT}vandenBeemt{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355 x 115
Cindy joined Primary Day as a consultant in 2016 and as a permanent member of the administrative team in 2017. With a proven approach of establishing focused, measurable goals and priorities to meet objectives, Cindy has served both non-profits and schools on the east coast for over twenty-five years. In the DC Metro area, Cindy has worked in advancement and mission development at The Barnesville School, Browne Academy, Georgetown Visitation, Maret School, and Stone Ridge. She is passionate about her role at PDS and the opportunity to engage the community in the strategic planning, execution and messaging necessary to sustain a healthy, mission appropriate enrollment.
×Board of Trustees
Ashish Lakhanpal , Board Chair
Scott Lawrence, Head of School
Jeremy London , Treasurer
Christopher Abell
Mikel Blair
Shiaw-Wei (David) Chang
J. Timothy Hanson
Alla Iaquinto
Jennifer Miller
Warren (Mack) Wells, III
Linda Wenger
Abigail Wiebenson
Nancy Wieker, Emeritus
School Hours
Arrival and Dismissal
Early Childcare: 7:45–8:00 am
Arrival: 8:00–8:30 am
Dismissal: 3:00 pm
Early Dismissal: 12:00 pm
After-School
Monday-Friday After-School: 3:00–6:00 pm
Enrichment classes are also offered as part of the After-School choices. More detailed information about our After-School Programs below.

After School Programs
2019–2020 GRASP (Golden Rule after School Program)
Supervised play
GRASP Supervised Play is available Monday through Friday from 3:00 pm to either 4:45 pm or 6:00 pm. When school is closed due to inclement weather, GRASP will be closed.
Fall 2019: 16 Weeks |
Option I (until 4:45) | Option II (until 6:00) |
One day a week | $418 | $728 |
Two days a week | $777 | $1,359 |
Three days a week | $1,165 | $2,038 |
Four days a week | $1,553 | $2,718 |
Five days a week | $1,792 | $3,155 |
$35 per day for drop-in | $55 per day for drop-in |
Winter 2020: 11 Weeks |
Option I (until 4:45) |
Option II (until 6:00) |
One day a week | $308 | $536 |
Two days a week | $572 | $1,001 |
Three days a week | $858 | $1,502 |
Four days a week | $1,144 | $2,002 |
Five days a week | $1,320 | $2,324 |
$35 per day for drop-in | $55 per day for drop-in |
Spring 2020: 10 Weeks |
Option I (until 4:45) |
Option II (until 6:00) |
One day a week | $280 | $488 |
Two days a week | $520 | $910 |
Three days a week | $780 | $1,365 |
Four days a week | $1,040 | $1,820 |
Five days a week | $1,200 | $2,113 |
$35 per day for drop-in | $55 per day for drop-in |
Please note: These rates are for the 2019–2020 school year.
Enrichment Classes
Enrichment classes are offered from 3:15–4:15 pm Monday - Friday.
Our Enrichment Program offers our students at all grade levels an opportunity to participate in special classes after school that expose them to an array of activities and skills. Classes are offered in the Fall, Winter and Spring and a different class is offered each day. Past offerings have included chess, lacrosse, cooking, dance yoga, Tae Kwon Do, and Mad Science.



Life After Graduation
A Portrait of a Graduate
Our alumni are curious, self-reliant and accomplished. An education at Primary Day assures lifelong success by endowing our graduates with an inspired academic foundation and the intellectual resourcefulness to actively engage as young learners. Well-prepared, thoughtful and kind, they are courageous risk-takers and compassionate friends. Equipped with a confident resilience, our children are sought after applicants to independent schools throughout greater Washington.
Next School Placement Counseling
Primary Day understands the importance of finding the right school fit for every child. Our Head of School and Next School Placement Team personally meet with Second Grade parents to help with the transition to Third Grade. We know each child and the regional school landscape and use that knowledge to help guide each family as they determine the school their child will attend following Primary Day. We provide guidance and information during every stage of the decision-making process.
What schools do children attend after they graduate from Primary Day?
Ninety three percent of our 2020 graduates were accepted into their first choice school. Over the past five years our graduates have gone on to attend Third Grade at the following schools (those in bold have had more than five students attend in the past five years):
- Bullis School
- Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School
- Georgetown Day School
- Holton-Arms School
- Landon School
- Langley School
- Maret School
- McLean School
- Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School
- Montgomery County Public Schools
- Norwood School
- Potomac School
- St. Andrew's Episcopal Day School
- St. Patrick’s Episcopal Day School
- Sheridan School
- Sidwell Friends School
- Stone Ridge School
- Washington Episcopal School
- Woods Academy

“Primary Day gave me the confidence, knowledge, and organizational skills I needed to succeed.”— Maxwell Fabiszewski, Primary Day Class of 2002

Memberships
- Association of Independent Schools of Greater Washington
- Association of Independent Maryland Schools
- Elementary School Heads Association
- Enrollment Management Association
- Fulbright Association
- Latino Student Fund
- National Association of Independent Schools
- National Association for the Education of Young Children
- National Business Officers Association
- Parents Council of Washington

Employment
The Primary Day School is dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities to all personnel and applicants for employment without regard to race; color; religion; sex; national origin; handicap or disability; sexual orientation; or status as a veteran, Vietnam era, or special disabled veteran.
Teaching
- None Available
Administrative
- None Available
Staff
- None Available

Head of School Search
Primary Day School Opportunity Statement - December 3, 2020
Search Update from Committee Co-Chairs - November 2, 2020
Letter from the Committee Co-Chairs - October 15, 2020
Letter from the Board of Trustees - October 9, 2020
Letter from the Head of School - October 9, 2020
Frequently Asked Questions
How will the search for a new Head of School work?
The Board is conducting a national search for our next head of school. The search is led by the Board of Trustees. To assist in this effort, the Board has retained Independent Thinking, a firm specializing in identifying and recruiting independent school heads and the firm that assisted Primary Day in its last head of school search. The Board has appointed a Search Committee. In partnership with Independent Thinking, the Search Committee will solicit input from members of the community to develop clear criteria for a new head of school. The Search Committee is charged with leading this process on behalf of the school community and ultimately will recommend to the Board a candidate to serve as PDS’ next head of school.
What is the timeline for the Head of School search?
The search is currently underway. The search process consists of three different phases. The first phase is spent planning, gathering information, establishing criteria for the new head and advertising the position. The second phase is spent recruiting and vetting qualified candidates. The third phase involves selecting and evaluating finalists. PDS is fortunate to have the continued strong leadership of the current Head of School, Scott Lawrence through June 2021, with the new Head of School to begin July 1, 2021. While it is likely that the new Head of School will be named in late winter or early spring, the Board is committed to finding the right next leader and will take the time necessary to find that individual.
How will COVID impact the search?
As we all know, the entire country and every school is navigating through the pandemic. At the same time, searches are occurring and concluding. PDS is fortunate to be in a well-enrolled, healthy school in an attractive area of the country for independent school educators. COVID protocols will impact the former ease of in-person interviewing, but we will use newly honed Zoom-skills in early interactions with candidates, and move through later stages of the search process as protocols enable. Most importantly, the Board and Search Committee are committed to finding the right next leader and will do all the work necessary to feel confident in securing a new Head of School.
What is the role of the search consultants?
The search consultants, Independent Thinking (www.independent-thinking.com), will advise the search committee throughout the process. They are responsible for gathering input from the community, creating the Opportunity Statement, and recruiting for and marketing the position to build a deep candidate pool. Independent Thinking will interview and vet candidates in order to present strong candidates to the Search Committee. The consultants will work with the Search Committee in interviewing and fully vetting candidates and supporting the Committee as it works to make a fully informed recommendation to the Board.
What is the role of the Search Committee?
The Search Committee directs the entire search process on behalf of the PDS community. During the initial phase, the Committee coordinates input, and works with the consultants to craft the Opportunity Statement. Working with Independent Thinking, the Committee will narrow down the candidates, conduct interviews with the semi-finalists and finalists and work with the Search Consultants to conduct extensive reference checking. The Search Committee will recommend one finalist to the Board of Trustees for approval as the new Head of School. The Search Committee will keep the school community appropriately informed and engaged throughout the entire search process, while respecting the confidentiality of the candidate recruitment and vetting process.
What is the role of the current Head of School in the search?
During the search, Scott’s primary focus will be running the school. He will serve as a resource to the Search Committee and the search consultants. Later in the process, Scott will meet with finalist candidates to share his insight about the school and its mission and ethos.
How will community input be solicited?
Input from all members of the PDS community is extremely valuable and desirable. Independent Thinking has begun conversations with administrators and with Board members and will continue throughout October to have conversations with other stakeholders. In addition, Independent Thinking has solicited input through an online survey/questionnaire: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PDSsearch20.
The goal of the survey and conversations is to seek input from the community and draft an Opportunity Statement which will reflect the school’s leadership needs and serve as an introduction to the opportunity for potential candidates. Anyone may provide feedback or thoughts at anytime during the process by sending an e-mail to the Search Consultants, Jane Armstrong or Bill Lyons at it@independent-thinking.com. In addition, if you know of anyone you think could be a great next head of school for PDS, please forward that information to the search consultants.
How will the community be kept informed on progress?
The Board is committed to keeping the community informed regarding the important aspects of the search for PDS’ next Head of School, and will post all updates to this page. It is important to note that there will be quiet periods during the process. A great deal of the vetting of candidates needs to be conducted in a confidential manner in order to protect candidates current professional positions. Ensuring confidentiality in the early stages of the search will encourage a wider group of candidates to apply, and is an independent school industry standard. Finalist candidates will be introduced to the community at an appropriate point in the search process.
Will my child's experience be affected by the search?
No. The most important aspect of Primary Day remains its dedication to helping children grow academically, socially and emotionally in a happy, nurturing, and supportive place that sees each student’s potential and expects great things. This will be as true during the coming year as it has been in the past.
How and when will the transition to new leadership take place?
Scott’s last day at PDS will be June 30, 2021. The new Head of School will begin his/her tenure on July 1, 2021. The new Head of School will begin to visit PDS during the months between appointment and July 2021, with opportunities to meet our community and become familiar with the operating needs of the school. This transition period will offer ample time for the new Head of School to prepare for the 2021-2022 school year and be fully in place when first the faculty, and then the students, return at the end of summer.
If I have thoughts or questions about the search, who should I contact?
Please feel free to contact the Search Committee co-Chairs, Alla Iaquinto or Jen Miller, any member of the Search Committee, or our search consultants Jane Armstrong or Bill Lyons at Independent Thinking with any questions, suggestions, ideas or concerns at any time.
What is the role of the Board of Trustees?
Selecting the Head of School is the single most important act of the Board of Trustees. Trustees will have the opportunity to meet the finalist candidates, and acting upon the recommendation of the Search Committee, will vote on the appointment of PDS’ next Head of School. In making its decision, the Board will ensure that the appointed candidate is the absolute best fit for Primary Day School.
The Primary Day Head of School Search Committee
Co-chairs:
Alla Iaquinto
P'14 & P'17, Former PDS Search Committee Member, Trustee
Jennifer Miller
'88, P'20, Trustee
Members:
Ashish Lakhanpal
P’16 & P’18, Board Chair
Jack Chu
P’21 & P’24, PDPA Co-President (Parent Representative)
Maureen Cook
P’07, Business Manager (Staff representative)
Tim Hanson
'66, P’05 & P’07, Trustee
Kirsten House
’77, Second Grade Teacher (Faculty Representative)
Mack Wells
'85, P'18 & P'20, Trustee
Abigail Wiebenson
Former Head of School, Lowell School; Former Lower School Head, Georgetown Day School; Trustee