Joy in Learning for All

Doherty and Lotspeich are institutions with rich histories, both shaped by the vision and determination of two remarkable women: Miss Mary Harlan Doherty and Mrs. Helen Gibbons Lotspeich. These trailblazing educators laid the groundwork for what would become enduring legacies in the field of education, each driven by their unique but equally revolutionary ideals.

Mary Harlan Doherty, affectionately known as Miss Doherty, stood out in an era when societal expectations for women were narrow and limiting. After graduating from high school in 1880, she defied convention by pursuing higher education at Cornell University, earning her degree in 1899 — a remarkable achievement at a time when college was not an option for most women. Miss Doherty believed that young women should be equipped not just with social graces but with a rigorous education that would prepare them for college. With this vision, she founded the College Preparatory School for Girls in 1906, offering a curriculum rooted in classical education that emphasized academic excellence and readiness for the challenges of higher education.

Helen Lotspeich, meanwhile, was equally forward-thinking but took a different approach to learning. Believing that education should be a joyous experience, she pioneered a more progressive philosophy centered around the idea that students should learn through exploration and interaction with the world around them. In 1916, she founded the Clifton Open-Air School in her own home, where lessons were held outdoors, embracing nature and fresh air as integral parts of the learning environment.

Though their methods differed, Miss Doherty and Mrs. Lotspeich were united by their commitment to transforming education. Both women saw beyond the constraints of their time, envisioning schools that would nurture not just intellect but also character and joy in learning. They were pioneers, breaking boundaries and challenging the educational norms of their day to create lasting change for future generations.

The work of a transformative education continues today. By nurturing intellect and character, and joy in learning, we draw upon the unique strengths of Miss Doherty and Mrs. Lotspeich. Our students experience real-world, hands-on learning experiences that ask them to be cognitively active. They discover their passions and seek ways to positively impact their communities. Our teachers encourage growth and the development of kindness and respect towards others. They hold high expectations for all, while simultaneously providing a safe environment for taking risks. They are truly about transforming the lives of their students.

As we look to the future, we are committed to continuing the work of our founders, preserving their legacies while building a forward-thinking Lower School with a long-term vision that leads the way in developing a joy in learning for all.