An Educational Vision for the New Century

The Ven. Malcolm H. Manson, Head of School

Dear Friends,

It is a great pride and joy to be a part of this electronic introduction to the Bay School of San Francisco—a new independent high school, founded in fall 2004. This project has been many years in the works, its mission and philosophy refined by reading and discussion, and by consultation with leading teachers and administrators. It has been developed collaboratively and thoughtfully, with the future of our students and our world clearly in mind.

We have used all of the wisdom we can muster to design a high school fitted appropriately to the challenges our young people will face later on in this new century. We believe that a working knowledge of science and technology, an understanding of religion and ethics, and a concern for the world as a whole are the three “R’s” of our time. This is not to undercut an appreciation for art and literature, for mathematics, for clear and elegant communication in more than one language; these remain integral to the high school academic exercise. We do suggest, however, that a shift in emphasis is called for, and plan to take a lead in independent education in making that shift.

For a student going to school every day, these aspirations are largely not noticeable. The students we have attracted are able, diverse, talky, engaged, and full of life. What we intend in creating our new community is to build trust, practice truth-telling, demonstrate compassion, and laugh a lot together. Our students work hard and play hard, learning habits of accuracy as well as imagination, challenging old ideas as they respect their heritage, growing into powerful and altruistic leaders.

I encourage you to explore this Web site as an excellent introduction to our school—and even more, to contact us, plan a visit, and get to know us better.

Yours very sincerely,

Malcolm Manson
Head of School

Curriculum Vitae

Founding Head of The Bay School of San Francisco.
Archdeacon for Schools, Diocese of California.
Canon Headmaster, Cathedral School for Boys, 1990-1999.
Headmaster, Oregon Episcopal School, 1982-1990.
Headmaster, Marin Country Day School, 1969-1982.
Administrator, Choate, 1963-1969.
Vice-Chair Jubilate Deo Project for the Episcopal Diocese.
Vice President, Episcopal Charities.