Welcome
from Neil Mufson, Head of School
Welcome to Primary Day!
Imagine a school whose entire reason for being is to serve the specific needs and opportunities of children in Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 2. Where every decision, every direction, every resource is grounded by what is best for these early learners – emotionally, cognitively, socially, and physically.
Imagine a school where every teacher is an early childhood expert. Where, in the faculty and staff, parents find true partners in the joyful but formidable task of providing the best possible start to formal schooling, while at the same time raising children nurtured to face challenges with purpose, goodness, resilience, and the strongest of skills.
Imagine a school that fosters not just imagination and a strong work ethic, but also kindness, respect, responsibility, and balance. That scaffolds the strongest possible academic foundation with abundant opportunities for free play, fresh air, and being a kid. That mindfully cultivates a warm sense of community that helps children, parents, and teachers connect and thrive. That embraces diversity not just because it is right but because it knows it is the only way to grow the strongest possible education and the most just world.
Imagine a school whose very structure promotes discovering what kind of learner each child is, meeting those needs, and then sending its graduates on to the best schools in the greater DC area. Imagine a next school placement team that offers the most personalized approach and that eliminates chance and anxiety. Imagine graduates who are sought after by what are arguably the best schools in the nation because they know the value of what their sending school delivers.
Imagine a school that truly honors the time of life between Pre-Kindergarten and Second Grade and that imbues its learners with the tools to create and open future doors of opportunity.
You don’t have to imagine such a school. You will find it at The Primary Day School. This is who we are.
For 79 years Primary Day has 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 anchored in a challenging, engaging, enriched academic experience, responsive to the ever-changing needs of young learners. In this special place, our students forge their identities as learners and people and form lifelong relationships.
Our website cannot adequately capture the warmth of this special community, an aspect of Primary Day most families cite as the defining characteristic of our school. It can only be experienced in person. I hope you will schedule a campus visit so that I can welcome you and that you no longer have to imagine all our unique school offers.
Warmly,
Neil Mufson
N.Mufson{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 79 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





m{DOT}bess{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Monica joined the faculty at Primary Day as the First Grade Teaching Assistant. She attended Radford University, where she earned her B.S. degree in Early Childhood Education. Monica is an experienced First Grade Teacher and is looking forward to providing support to both First Grade classrooms. In her spare time, Monica loves to read and spend time outside.
×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.
×j{DOT}bruton{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Jess joined Primary Day in 2023, bringing with her a degree nursing as well as a degree in psychology. She has worked as a nurse in both schools and clinics. Jess is an avid reader and enjoys walking with her dog.
×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.
×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.
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S{DOT}Dandrea{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355 x129
Susanna joined the faculty of Primary Day in 2013 as a Kindergarten teacher. In 2015 she moved to First Grade, where she has since remained. Prior to her arrival at Primary Day, her daughter and son both attended the school, while Susanna continued to teach Kindergarten, Second, and Third Grade at Horace Mann Elementary. While at Mann she was introduced to the Columbia Teachers College Reading and Writing Program as well as Responsive Classroom. Susanna is passionate about teaching and dedicated to keeping abreast of current research on best practices in elementary education through readings and Professional Development opportunities; she has completed Orton-Gillingham Associate I coursework and the Advanced Reading and Writing institutes at Columbia University Teachers College, in addition to the Advanced Responsive Classroom course. She loves spending time with her family, and enjoys hiking, traveling, visiting museums of all kinds, and attending music, dance, and theater productions.
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m{DOT}duhagon{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Originally from Uruguay, Magdalena came to the US in 2000 with a Fulbright scholarship to pursue graduate studies. She is a musician with more than 20 years of experience teaching students of all ages. She was a professor at George Washington University, American University and taught at many private schools in the DC area, Italy and Uruguay. She has had an extensive performing career, giving concerts in the Americas, Europe and Middle East, and has recorded two albums. Magdalena was included in the first Uruguayan edition of "Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls" and in 2014 was named by the Washingtonian Magazine as "one of the notable guitarists recommended for lessons”. She also has several years of experience in school administration and has taught Spanish at the elementary level. In her free time she likes to go on outings with her husband and their 7 year old son Nicolas. Magdalena has always loved languages and is fluent in Spanish, her native language, Italian and English.
×s{DOT}eghtesadi{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Sami joins us after teaching kindergarten for eight years at The Langley School in McLean, Virginia. Sami has a bachelor’s from Radford University and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Marymount University. She developed a strong passion in global education and leadership during her master’s work and has traveled to South Africa and Panama to help create student portfolios as well as partner with teachers and families on self-advocating skills and strategies for children. In her free time, Sami enjoys hiking, trying new cooking recipes and traveling. She looks forward to meeting PDS students and families!
×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. Dannette enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, being outdoors and traveling.
×j{DOT}ewart{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Julia joins us as our librarian, having a background in school library science and instructional technology. She earned her bachelor’s degree from University of Maryland and her MS from Towson University. She served first as Lower School Educational Technologist at Stone Ridge and later became Director of EdTech and Innovation there. Julia’s daughter Josie will be in our Kindergarten.
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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}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.
×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.
×g{DOT}greenberg{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Genna joins us after 10 years of teaching in Washington, DC. For several years she has been a first grade classroom teacher at Janney Elementary in the DC Public Schools and started her career at KIPP DC, teaching Kindergarten and first grade. Genna earned her undergraduate degree from Vanderbilt summa cum laude in Early Childhood Education and Child Studies; her M.Ed. is from Harvard's Graduate School of Education, where her major was Mind, Brain, and Education. She has significant experience in using Reader's and Writer's Workshop and Responsive Classroom. In addition, she has worked as a teacher leader, professional trainer, intern mentor, and as part of the multi-disciplinary team that develops and implements appropriate accommodations, interventions, and progress monitoring for her school.
×m{DOT}gulino{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Melanie started at PDS as a first grade teacher in 2021. She previously taught second grade at Horizon Japan International School in Yokohama, Japan; third grade at the American School of Fes, Morocco; and Kindergarten at Kids First Development Center in Bangkok, Thailand. Melanie earned two master’s degrees from Teachers College of Columbia University, one in elementary education and one in deaf and hard of hearing education. Her bachelor’s is from The State University of New York at Buffalo.
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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.
×j{DOT}kasenetz{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Jessie joins Primary Day after many years of teaching in independent and public schools. She most recently taught in Montgomery County Public Schools, and before that at The Langley School in McLean, VA, and The Heschel School in New York City. Jessie’s children attended Primary Day, and she is excited to continue engaging with the PDS community. Jessie enjoys spending time with family, traveling, biking, and cheering on DC sports teams.
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r{DOT}khreisat | 301-365-4355
Roueida (Rudy) joined PDS in the fall of 2020. 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.
×S{DOT}Kimmelman{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Sarah joined the Primary Day faculty in 2023. While studying at Lasell University in Newton, MA, she taught at a preschool in their Pre-K 3 program and completed her student teaching in and grades Kindergarten 1 and 2. After graduating from Lasell Sarah moved to Virginia and took a position at Brown House, the Child Development Center affiliated with Holton-Arms. In her free time she enjoys catching up with family, going for walks, and traveling.
×s{DOT}krhounek{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Sophie joined Primary Day in 2023. She earned her Master's degree in Accounting from Strayer University and has worked in both the private and non profit sectors for over 20 years. Sophie has found working in a school environment to be a very pleasant experience, especially the younger age group of Primary Day. "The positive energy from the young children motivates me and makes for a pleasant work day."
×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.
×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.
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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!
×k{DOT}mendelson{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Karen came to Primary Day in 2021. Her undergraduate degree is in Early Childhood Education from the University of South Carolina. She taught Kindergarten at Jacksonville Country Day School and Reynolds Lane Elementary School in Florida. At Reynolds Lane she was recognized as Teacher of the Year in 2017. Before she moved to Florida she taught at Bethesda Community School. Karen returned to Maryland just before the pandemic. Karen grew up in this area and attended Norwood and Holton-Arms.
×L{DOT}Moshyedi{AT}ThePrimaryDaySchool{DOT}org | 301.365.4355
Lori began teaching at Primary Day in 2009. She has been a First Grade Assistant Teacher, Librarian, and Kindergarten Teacher at P.D.S. She also taught Kindergarten, First and Second Grade before coming to Primary Day. Lori graduated with a B.S. in Elementary Education from Kutztown University with a concentration in Early Childhood. She has completed Orton-Gillingham Associate I and II coursework and is in the process of becoming certified at the Associate level. In addition, she is a member of the Association of Phono-Graphix Reading Therapists. Lori has done graduate coursework at Lehigh University and Drexel University and her professional affiliations include membership in Kappa Delta Pi and the National Association for the Education of Young Children. In her free time, Lori enjoys spending time with her children and volunteering for We Need Diverse Books.
×n{DOT}mufson{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Neil Mufson joined Primary Day as Head of School in July 2021, having served as Head of The Country School in Easton, Maryland, for 30 years. He also served as middle school head at The Ensworth School in Nashville, TN, taught middle and high school English at Princeton Day School (NJ) and Worcester Academy (MA), and worked as an independent school consultant with The Education Group. Neil earned his bachelor’s degree in comparative literature magna cum laude at Brown University, Providence, RI. He also has a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Tufts University, Medford, MA.
Neil looks forward to immersing himself in all things Primary Day and in the broader community. He has served on numerous non-profit boards, including CASA of the Mid-Shore (Court Appointed Special Advocates), University of Maryland Shore Regional Health System, BAAM (Building African American Minds), and ESHA (Elementary School Heads Association). He also served on the Board at two different times and as President of AIMS (Association of Independent Maryland and DC Schools). He has been a speaker for numerous community organizations, AIMS, and NAIS (The National Association of Independent Schools).
Neil’s daughter Maeve attends St. Andrew’s School in Middletown, Delaware. They spend some time each summer on an island off the coast of Maine. Neil also enjoys reading, cooking, doing crosswords, and streaming European detective series.
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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.
×j{DOT}myers{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Jenn joined Primary Day in 2023 as the Assistant Director of Engagement. She received her BA in English from Washington College and her MAT in Early Childhood Education from Trinity University. Before coming to Primary Day she taught K-6th, PE, and Academic Technology for over 20 years at The Maret School in Washington DC and St. John's Episcopal School in Olney, MD. Most recently she was the Office Manager for The Harbor School. She is a Bullis graduate and was born and raised in Montgomery County. In her spare time she enjoys yoga, reading, kayaking, hiking, and baking. She also holds a 30 hour certification in Childhood Yoga.
×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.
×l{DOT}pursley{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
Lilli is joining us as a kindergarten teacher. She recently graduated from Elon University and served as a student teacher at a number of elementary grade levels. Her teacher preparation program included placements in first, third, and fourth grade classrooms.
×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.
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s{DOT}stetson{AT}theprimarydayschool{DOT}org | 301-365-4355
We are thrilled to add Sarah ’73 to our first grade team, a Primary Day graduate whose four children also graduated from PDS. She is an experienced elementary and early childhood educator, having taught at The Hill School in Middleburg, VA, and The Country Day School in McLean. She also served as an assistant teacher at The Langley School and The Potomac School. She earned her Master of Arts in Teaching from American University and her bachelor’s at Georgetown.
×Board of Trustees
Warren (Mack) Wells, III, Board Chair
Neil Mufson, Head of School
Jennifer Puterman, Treasurer
Jennifer Miller, Secretary
Peter Barrett
Shiaw-Wei (David) Chang
Jack Chu
Catherine Emmerson
Ashish Lakhanpal
Jeremy London
Kavita Patel
Linda Wenger
Nancy Wieker, Emeritus
School Hours
Arrival and Dismissal
Early Childcare: Not available at this time
Arrival: 7:45–8:20 am
Dismissal: 3:00 pm
Early Dismissal: 12:00 pm
After-School
Monday-Friday After-School: 3:15–4:45 or 5:30 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
2022–2023 GRASP (Golden Rule after School Program)
Supervised play
GRASP Supervised Play is available Monday through Friday from 3:15 pm to 5:30 pm on regular school days. GRASP is not offered on early dismissal days and when school is closed for holidays.When school is closed due to inclement weather, GRASP will be closed.
Fall 2022: 14 Weeks (Sep 06 thru Dec 15) |
Option I (until 4:45) Drop-in Fee $40 |
Option II (until 5:30) Drop-in Fee $60 |
One day a week | $416 | $557 |
Two days a week | $772 | $1039 |
Three days a week | $1158 | $1558 |
Four days a week | $1543 | $2078 |
Five days a week | $1781 | $2412 |
Drop-in Fee $40 | Drop-in Fee $60 |
Winter 2023: 12 Weeks (Jan 03 thru Mar 23) |
Option I (until 4:45) Drop-in Fee $40 |
Option II (until 5:30) Drop-in Fee $60 |
One day a week | $356 | $447 |
Two days a week | $661 | $890 |
Three days a week | $992 | $1336 |
Four days a week | $1323 | $1781 |
Five days a week | $1526 | $2076 |
Drop-in Fee $40 | Drop-in Fee $60 |
Spring 2023: 9 Weeks (Apr 04 thru Jun 02) |
Option I (until 4:45) Drop-in Fee $40 |
Option II (until 5:30) Drop-in Fee $60 |
One day a week | $267 | $358 |
Two days a week | $496 | $668 |
Three days a week | $744 | $1002 |
Four days a week | $992 | $1336 |
Five days a week | $1145 | $1550 |
Drop-in Fee $40 | Drop-in Fee $60 |
Please note: These rates are for the 2022–2023 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 seven percent of our 2021 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
