Combined Report for Old Trail School
Overview
Old Trail School is an independent, coeducational day school located in Bath, Ohio, nestled within the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It provides education for children aged 2 through Grade 8 on a sprawling 62-acre campus that offers distinctive learning experiences. The institution is rooted in over 100 years of history and is dedicated to fostering curiosity and critical thinking among students.
Educational Philosophy
Influenced by educational pioneers John Dewey and Maria Montessori, Old Trail School focuses on the development of academically curious and independent thinkers. The school's educational approach aims to educate the whole child, underpinned by a relatively low student-teacher ratio of 8:1, which ensures personalized attention for students, supporting their comprehensive development—social, emotional, physical, and academic.
Leadership Team
- Sarah Johnston, Head of School: With a graduate degree from Columbia University Teachers College, Sarah Johnston has led the school since 2017, guiding it through strategic objectives while preserving its educational ethos.
- Joe Vogel, Associate Head of School and Director of Development: Central to the school's strategic operations and development initiatives.
- Meeta Nosrati, Chief Financial Officer: Recognized with the 2024 Will Hancock Unsung Hero Award for advancements in compensation strategies.
- Susan Newman, Director of Enrollment Management: Oversees student admissions and aims at enhancing strong relationship-building processes.
- Paul Warner, Director of Marketing and Communications: Enhances the school’s marketing outreach and prospective family engagement.
- Joe Morris, Director of Facilities: Manages the campus's operational aspects.
- Michael Duff, Middle School Director: Oversees the middle school division ensuring academic quality.
Board of Directors
The strategic oversight is managed by a diverse Board of Directors, including:
- President: Thomas Eaton III
- Vice President: Susan McKenzie
- Secretary: Holly Little
- Treasurer: John Cavanaugh
Financial and Employee Data
- Estimated Annual Revenue: $28.3 million
- Number of Employees: 143
- Revenue per Employee: $198,000
- Employee Growth: 8% increase over the past year
Community Engagement and Achievements
Old Trail School is renowned for its community service and extracurricular activities, which cultivate a strong school culture. The institution's accolades include awards for community service and commendable achievements in state competitions, such as chess.
Fundraising and External Relations
Active fundraising is pivotal, led by a dynamic Parents Association that enriches educational experiences and bolsters the school community.
Competitors
Old Trail School competes with several educational institutions in the region:
1. Mars Hill Academy
- Revenue: $5.8M
- Employees: 40
- Employee Growth: 11%
2. Neola
- Revenue: $8.3M
- Employees: 51
- Employee Growth: 2%
3. Blanchester Local Schools
- Revenue: $11.5M
- Employees: 71
- Employee Growth: 0%
4. Monroe Local Schools
- Revenue: $20M
- Employees: 111
- Employee Growth: 8%
5. The Ohio State University (Regionally competitive programs)
- Revenue: $50.1M
- Employees: 253
- Employee Growth: 20%
Unique Positioning
Old Trail School distinguishes itself as the solitary independent school positioned within a national park, offering unique educational experiences tied to natural resources. Its location and historical commitment to academic excellence position it competitively as a top choice for families seeking an integration of rigorous academics and nature-focused learning. Old Trail serves approximately 451 students, maintaining a robust educational reputation, underscored by strategic staff expansion to meet changing educational demands.
