Parents
News
Summer
Giving
Upcoming Milestones - Spring 2023
New Head of Early Childhood: Carissa Lacy
“It is with great anticipation and excitement that I join the PDS Community. PDS’ approach of educating and developing boys both educationally and spiritually is applauded by generations. It is my utmost aim to continue this standard of excellence."
Carissa has worked for over 25 years in education as a Principal of Visual and Performing Arts Magnet, Director of Student Services for Marion School District, Principal of Marion Middle School and East Elementary School, guidance counselor, teacher, and assistant superintendent. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and a Master of Science in Counselor Education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
Carissa's son Kacen Parham is a current 4th grade student.
Ross Spain to Become Assistant Head of Lower School at MUS
It's with a mix of emotions that I announce that Ross Spain is transitioning to become the Assistant Head of Lower School at MUS. I am very excited for him, this new role, new adventure, and a great opportunity, but we are always sad to see great colleagues transition from PDS.
"PDS has been my home for 19 years. I have made many lifelong friendships and learned a lot from teachers, parents, and most importantly the boys. Through the boys I have learned resilience in difficult times, how to truly love your friends, and what it means to lead by example with humility. The PDS community made me a better teacher, but most importantly a better father to my children. I will forever be grateful for the time I spent and the relationships I formed in my time at PDS."
New Dean of Students: Palmer Albertine
As soon as Ross shared his news with me, I began looking for the person to fill his role and continue the great work he’s done throughout his time at PDS. One individual’s name kept emerging who is well known and beloved by all at PDS. I am very excited to announce that Palmer Albertine is returning to PDS and will be the Dean of Students next year.
"Coming back to PDS is the easiest “tough” decision I’ve ever made. Having spent a decade working at the school and then the last couple of years as only a parent, I’ve acquired a unique perspective and appreciation for everything that PDS does for all the different types of boys walking its halls. I’m looking forward to playing a new role working alongside the teachers and helping the PDS parents invest in the molding of their boys’ lives."
Palmer and his wife Lauren are parents of two sons, 2nd-grader Field and Palmer '22, a student at MUS.
Tony Rudzena Appointed Director of Cultural Expeditions
As we make final preparations for the upcoming trip to Washington D.C. and Philadelphia by our 6th grade boys, I'm pleased to announce that Tony Rudzena will become Director of Cultural Expeditions next school year.
Our Cultural Expeditions program will continue to expand next year with the launch of the New York City / Boston trip. The program gives upper elementary boys unique educational experiences.
I appreciate Tony taking on this new responsibility in addition to his other duties as chaplain and teacher.
Southern Association of Independent School Accreditation
After months of work behind the scenes, we are ready for our accreditation visit. We will host five independent school educators on March 26-28 that form the accreditation team.
Selected parents, alumni, faculty, and students will meet with the team during their visit to campus.
In addition to the goals we’ve developed, they will make recommendations for improvement over the next five years.
