Resignation Letter

January 2010

Howard Anderson                        Gene Sykes
Rector                                          Chair, Board of Trustees
Parish of St. Matthew                   St. Matthew’s Parish School

Dear Howard and Gene,

It is good to have an end to journey toward, but it is the journey that matters in the end. (Ursula Le Guin) 

After much thought, reflection and discussion, I decided to bring this journey to an end, making the academic year ending June 2011 my last as Head of School at St. Matthew’s Parish School. 

It has been an honor to serve as the School’s Head over these past two-and-a-half decades, with an intimate involvement in its growth and progress.  It is right that ultimately others will judge and determine the role I have played in the School’s ascendancy to becoming the outstanding educational institution it is today.  I know I am proud of the School’s success and readily aware it could not have happened without the work of so many.  Over these more than 25 years, I feel blessed to have been in the company of such talented trustees, dedicated teachers and administrators, supportive parents and delightful students.  As is so often the case, only a talented, committed team could forge such vitality, goodness and excellence.  Know how much I appreciate being given more credit than I deserve for the School’s success and less blame for my missteps.  For the advice, support, forgiveness and aid of so many, I am profoundly grateful.

As to my own legacy, if I am permitted an opinion, it would be my fervent hope that it extends well beyond bricks and mortar, buildings and grounds.  I hope if remembered it would be for helping children attain a new level of understanding, experience greater clarity about a future direction, a desire to better serve others or become more committed to bringing about positive change.  For me, education has much more to do with human beings and the lives they live, the choices they make and the goodness they spread, than the look of the place, no matter how state-of-the-art the classrooms or beautiful the campus. 

Departing is so hard; yet the time seems right.  Marilyn and I are sad to leave behind so many connections both personal and professional.  St. Matthew’s has been our home, our extended family and an essential part of our lives.  My experience here has instructed, shaped and improved me.  I leave knowing the School is strong and vibrant: fiscally sound, fully enrolled, in possession of excellent facilities, as well as imbued with optimism for what the future holds.  The new head will find a community of parents, students and faculty ready to embrace the full array of opportunities for further growth and refinement.  Change can be hard for us mortals who cling to the familiar.  However, I am confident we are well prepared for this change along with the blessings and challenges it foretells.

Thank you, St. Matthew’s, for all you have given me.  I know I am a better person for having traveled with you at my side.

Sincerely,

Les W. Frost
Head of School