Lexicon of Terms

Experiences that connect classroom knowledge to real audiences, real problems, and real impact.

Learning through application — including projects, internships, partnerships, labs, performances, and service — where students actively engage with real-world contexts.

A professional culture that attracts, develops, and retains educators of exceptional skill and character who are committed to continuous growth and collaborative practice.

An academic program that honors timeless foundations in literacy, numeracy, science, and the humanities while integrating emerging knowledge, technology, and real-world application.

Assessment practices that measure not only content mastery, but also growth, application, and depth of understanding.

The ability to think about and reflect on one’s own thinking and learning. It includes being aware of how you approach a task, monitoring your understanding as you work, and adjusting strategies to improve outcomes.

Structured opportunities for students to examine how they learn, assess their progress, and take ownership of their growth.

Teaching practices grounded in cognitive science and educational research that support deep understanding and long-term retention.

The academic abilities, habits of thinking, and personal strengths that enable students to navigate complexity, contribute meaningfully, and adapt over time.

A coherent ECH–12 learning journey in which knowledge and skills build intentionally across grade levels (vertical alignment) and reinforce one another within each grade (horizontal alignment).

Prepared not only for college admission, but for meaningful contribution and equipped with intellectual agility, ethical judgment, collaboration skills, and the capacity to learn, unlearn, and relearn in a changing world.

A structured mentoring system in which every student is well-known by at least one adult advocate who supports academic progress, personal growth, and belonging.

A school culture in which every student feels known, valued, respected, and connected.

The habits of heart and mind that shape how a person acts when no one is watching — including integrity, empathy, courage, and responsibility.

The ability to engage thoughtfully and respectfully with people, perspectives, and experiences different from one’s own.

A program or practice recognized beyond our local context for excellence, innovation, and measurable impact.

Purposeful engagement with the needs of others that cultivates empathy, civic responsibility, and commitment to the common good.

Intentional structures that empower students to express ideas, offer feedback, and participate meaningfully in shaping their school experience.

The integration of physical, emotional, and mental health practices that enable students to thrive amid challenge and complexity.

A phased, long-term vision for facilities and space that aligns the physical environment with enrollment goals, safety, student experience, and financial capacity.

Strategic relationships with organizations, higher education institutions, and businesses that enhance learning opportunities and extend the School’s impact.

A strategic, data-informed approach to attracting, enrolling, and retaining mission-aligned students while balancing capacity, program strength, and financial sustainability.

A multi-year financial model that aligns enrollment strategy, tuition planning, philanthropy, investments, and responsible debt management to ensure long-term sustainability and strategic flexibility.

The systems, staffing, financial strength, and infrastructure necessary to sustain excellence, support growth, and deliver on strategic priorities.

The systematic tracking of alumni achievement and early career pathways to assess how effectively Davidson Day prepares students for life beyond graduation.

Revenue streams that support and extend the School’s mission without compromising academic integrity, culture, or student experience.

The responsible management of financial, physical, and human resources in service of both present needs and future generations.