As we step into 2022, we all hope and pray that the scourges of COVID–19 are waning, even if this moment of intensity may feel otherwise. As we launch into a new year at PDS, we do so with a mindset of gratitude. “When it comes to life the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude,” G.K. Chesterton, the famed British journalist would say. While we cannot predict the ebbs and flows of the latest variant, we begin this year with a renewed dedication to unique learning experiences and memorable moments of shaping minds and character.

There is no greater joy to PDS educators than to see the development of our boys as they move from grade to grade and learn to embody the virtues and a scholastic framework for their future. We always count it a privilege and honor to work with such bright and talented boys from every zip code in Memphis. We are excited and grateful to press ahead with the types of experiences that capture the attention and curiosity of boys.

You may have heard it said before that “it takes something more than intelligence to act intelligently.” That phrase seems almost intuitively accurate. Reflect only for a moment on your experiences in life, and that phrase is affirmed. We know that schools are not mere factories for developing brains. Creating the complex chemistry needed in a school to build boys takes more than developing just their IQ.

I know my first experiences walking the halls of PDS, interacting with the boys, and meeting alumni of this school gave me a profound sense of well-rounded development. Respect, manners, regard for others, and emotional intelligence were some of the first impressions that came to mind of PDS boys. Our cover story, ‘Remember Your Armor: How PDS Cultivates a Culture of Emotional-Intelligence,’ explores the components of emotional intelligence and how PDS strives to develop boys’ EQ. We aspire to ready these boys for the next level by setting the foundation they need to thrive and excel.

We all want an education for our children that develops them to their potential. We want our boys to be pushed to the edge of their abilities, and PDS boys thrive on challenge. The development of boys’ emotional intelligence is one more marker of what makes the PDS experience dynamic. We know the important skills and habits of tomorrow will be grounded in EQ.

PDS is a vibrant place of many activities and events for boys and their families. If you are like me, every reminder helps. This edition of PDS Spirit Magazine includes lots of those reminders. As you flip through each page, I hope you make note of the many upcoming events and happenings.

As always, thank you for your continued support as we strive to build boys and make men for the future!

Sincerely,

Brad Sewell
Head of School