FCDS Headmaster Battle Passes Baton

LEWISVILLE, NC - April 12 - Following a break-of-dawn, closed-door meeting of the FCDS administrative staff, FCDS fourth grader Anna McKeen emerged as the newly installed Head for the independent school. While expected by many, Battle's decision to step aside for a younger player has still caused quite a stir in the school community.

Head McKeen with (l to r) Mattie, Battle, and LS teacher Ken Shaw

To quickly establish herself in her new position, Ms. McKeen made an early appearance at the Lower School carpool. She was an instant hit with staff and parents alike.

In a shrewd display of partisan strategy, Ms. McKeen next made her way to the fourth grade classrooms. In her first executive act of the day, Anna quickly gained the support of her colleagues (after a not-so-subtle Battle lesson in how to railroad support from teachers) by proclaiming a "no homework" night for the fourth grade.

Fourth graders listen attentively to "no homework" announcement

In anticipation of this evening's dedication of FCDS' fabulous new track, Ms. McKeen and Mr. Battle decided to ensure that proper preparations were being made for the event.

Battle and McKeen check preparations for track dedication

The new track provides one of the best running surfaces in the state

Proper drainage will provide a longer life for FCDS' second track

Satisfied with the look of things at the track, the next order of business was an appropriate "attaboy" for the school's athletic director, Rusty LaRue.

McKeen and Battle meet with athletic director Rusty LaRue

Even on her first day on the job, McKeen has already been pressured to push promotions for FCDS' long awaited swimming pool. Very pro-pool, Anna has offered to use her own influence with financiers to increase backing for the project.

A Head doesn't make it far into the workday without facing the financial concerns of the institution. The school's development office was quick to accept the laissez-faire approach of their new boss.

Development office is all smiles over change in leadership

Modern education depends heavily on technology. Ms. McKeen was quick to share her views with CIO Michael Seymour as they discussed this summer's pc upgrade plans.

McKeen talks high ticket technology with CIO Seymour

Even the Head must sometimes "hurry up and wait." McKeen's next stop was a meeting with Middle School director and provost Chuck Jones.

It's not all excitement for new Head

Before embarking on a classroom tour, Jones couldn't resist the opportunity to (once again) attempt to justify his color choices in color-coding the Middle School.

"There's NOTHING wrong with that green..."

McKeen sizes up next year's classroom accommodations and teachers
The Middle School boys were quick to offer their suggestions for improvements
Teachers and students all seem favorably impressed with new Head

Ms. McKeen quickly discovered that one of the problems created by FCDS' success is the need to expand and the limited space to do so. Here we see her discussing the school's land acquisition plans with Battle and director of facilities Jim Tobias.

With a busy morning mostly out of the way, McKeen looks forward to one of the perks of the Head position - a leisurely lunch with associates.

McKeen with colleagues A.W. Strawsburg, M. Wilson, N. Baker, and H. Battle

Being Head is not all glitz and glamour, though. After a stint helping administrative assistant Susan Curl set up for the wrestling banquet, our new leader was ready to call it a day...

Anna wraps up the day