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The Role of the HCD

The Role of the HCD

Last week when I was chatting with a prospective family the mom asked me, "What makes Mead so special and unique?” While we are often asked this question,  often the same answer comes to mind…” the HCD.” The follow-up to that is usually,  “Can you explain what that is?” This is a good question.  I had never heard of the role when I began working at Mead five years ago. The role of an HCD (Home Center Director) at Mead School is one of the distinctive, founding roles of the school.  Those who take on this role become part counselor and advisor, master teacher, mentor, and expert in the developmental arcs of the children in that center. HCDs know each student incredibly well and advocate for them at every juncture.

HCDs understand when to push a child and when to hold back. They know each student's favorite Pokémon character, which students benefit from doodling during math class, and even when someone might need a larger pair of sneakers. The intensity of this personal connection is what sets HCDs apart and is one of the key qualities that makes Mead School such a special place.

One of the most important aspects of the HCD role is the partnership and relationship with all of you…the families. In a world where we often turn to digital sources for answers, or where,  in most schools, there isn't a dedicated coaching role like this, it's refreshing to have a human connection that focuses on parenting and child development more exclusively. HCDs provide a safe place to vent, celebrate successes, and respond to concerns— a kind of one-stop shop for insight into your child's life at school. 

The HCD is the most ‘mission-centered’ piece of our staffing model. As Mead evolves with the times, and we are called upon to reevaluate the impact of the HCD, we are always aware that it is a constant by which we measure and align so many other changes. 

Nikki Breakell Miller

Director of Marketing, Communications, and Family Engagement