Rumson Country Day Dedicates Entrance to Retiring Headmaster

The Rumson Country Day School (RCDS) Headmaster Chad B. Small created a signature tradition in his 25 years at the school.

He has always greeted the students at the entrance to the school each morning.

So, considering it will be Small's last year at RCDS before he retires, it was fitting that the school year began with a special dedication to the entrance.

The ceremony, held on Sept. 6, marked the start of Small's final year for students. After being greeted by him every morning between 7:30 and 8 a.m., they could usually find him all over campus, in classrooms, attending performances and at athletic events.

“This is my favorite time of day," Small said in a released statement. "I enjoy welcoming the children every morning, shaking hands and offering a kind word. It makes my day."

And the morning connection is something that the students enjoy as well.

At the ceremony, Student Council President Paul Thomas, of the class of 2014, read the plaque inscription to the audience, beginning with a quote from Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.:

“‘There is no friend like an old friend who has shared our morning days, no greeting like his welcome, no homage like his praise.’ The students of The Rumson Country Day School dedicate this entrance to our Headmaster Dr. Chad B. Small who welcomed us to school every morning for 25 years from 1989 to 2014.”

RCDS Board President Shawn Reynolds took the podium and invited all of the children to a special celebration for Small that will last all year.

He praised Small for his dedication and commitment to the students over the years.

“How truly special and remarkable it is to have a headmaster greet you at the beginning of each day," he said. "These are special memories that I hope all of you have. Not every school has a Headmaster with a heart as big as Mr. Small's, and you are very lucky indeed!”

For more about Small, his history and final year at RCDS, read the full, unedited announcement posted by the school.