Ms. Crain
Mrs. Maggie Crain has worked at the school for 20 years. She is an academic coach in the TLC and director of new student orientation.
As Prep class dean, I focus on the new student experience. How do you adjust to being away from home for the first time? How do you treat one another? How do you develop your executive-functioning skills?
I have this phrase, “the gift of getting caught.” If I can work with a student as a Prep to help them learn and grow from a mistake and its consequences, then that difficult moment can be turned into an opportunity.
I stay connected with the class through our class activities. I try to meet with my class presidents every week and with my class council every other week. I repeat again and again to them that my door is always open. I’m in the halls all the time.
The 2028s lead with open minds and open hearts. They are a very kind class.
Ms. Henderson
Ms. Kinyette Henderson is an instructor in English,
coach of Boys Varsity Basketball, and head
of Memorial Dorm. She joined the school in 2021.
My favorite part about being a class dean is getting to know the students. The 2027s are a class like no other! Their energy and school spirit is unmatched. They want to make their mark, and I believe they will leave a legacy at the school that no other class has.
While it might be thought that most kids would avoid class deans, since we are the face of disciplinary action, lots of my students come to me for support and use me as a resource. I try to remain accessible, and Lower Mids are always welcome to drop in my office.
The most rewarding part of my role is accompanying this class of students for three years. The prospect of witnessing how much the class of 2027 will grow is exciting.
A fun fact about me is that I love all Beyoncé- related things!
Mr. Williams
Mr. Mario Williams ’12 joined the school in 2019. He teaches environmental science, coaches Boys Varsity Soccer, and is head of Coy Dorm.
I work to ensure my 171 Upper Mids feel supported and have access to the resources they need to thrive. Each year, I introduce a theme for the class of 2026 to set the tone for the year ahead, and this year’s theme is patience.
This year I also introduced Peer Portraits, where members of the class present in class meeting about who they are, where they’re from, and what led them to the school. It has been a great way to learn about one another and promote understanding.
The most rewarding part of my role is witnessing students grow into their authentic selves. I am grateful to have the opportunity to observe and play a role in many of these moments.
Outside of work, I spend time with my wife and our active, playful one-year-old son, Cameron. I also enjoy watching soccer, listening to podcasts, and fly fishing.
Ms. Gardiner
Ms. Carita Gardiner has been at the school for 27 years. During that time, she served as English department head and has taught all grades.
As the dean of the class, I’m in charge of shepherding the 2025s through Hotchkiss. I try to help them make good choices and lead them in good directions.
Every day I’m faced with different issues. I feel rewarded when I feel that I have been of real help to someone who’s struggling.
I try to show up whenever 2025s are getting together as a method to stay connected. I’ve especially enjoyed our Adulting 101 classes.
We’ve already started to have some of our “first lasts” as a grade. I’ve been thrilled to work with the 2025s, and I encourage the other classes to take the opportunity to connect with 2025s they haven’t met yet—all 168 of them are worth knowing!
