Kentucky Country Day School Announces New Head of School for July 2025
The Kentucky Country Day School Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Deena J. Carey as KCD’s new Head of School, effective July 1, 2025. The Board voted unanimously to appoint Ms. Carey based on the enthusiastic recommendation of the Search Committee. This appointment represents the culmination of a rigorous thoughtful, and thorough search process led by a committee of trustees, alumni, parents, faculty, administrators, and staff in partnership with the search firm, The Education Group.
“During her visit to campus, Ms. Carey emerged as an experienced, intelligent, and passionate educational leader—and the individual best suited to lead our fine school forward,” stated Board Chair Chris Brice in a letter to the KCD community. He further shared, “Most importantly, [her] education and expertise are matched by her caring nature, thoughtful listening, and depth of character.”
Ms. Carey, who earned a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration fromGeorge Washington University and a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University ofCincinnati, currently serves as Associate Head of School at the Isidore Newman School—the premier early childhood through 12th grade independent day school in New Orleans, Louisiana.Newman was founded in 1903 and has a total enrollment of just over 1,085 students this year. In her role, which she will continue to serve in through the end of the 2024-25 school year, Ms. Carey shares oversight of the entire school with specific responsibility for internal and academic affairs.
In a letter to the community, Ms. Carey noted that she was drawn to KCD’s mission: challenging its students to achieve their highest level of academic excellence and to grow into honorable people of confidence and integrity. “It is from this position of strength that we move forward together, deepening our collective commitment to ensuring our Bearcats grow into Citizens, Scholars, and Stewards, prepared for successful lives and meaningful contributions to society. Building on KCD’s over 50-year legacy as a top-ranked independent school in the city and state, I am excited to lead and further enhance an already dynamic environment that fosters personal growth and excellence in all endeavors,” she stated.
During her visit to KCD’s campus, Ms. Carey felt both warmly welcomed and constructively challenged. “I observed a dedicated faculty and staff, a beautiful, well-resourced campus, engaged parents, and joyful students fully immersed in meaningful learning experiences. It was a privilege to see these elements in action,” she stated.
Originally from Cincinnati, Ms. Carey is looking forward to finding her new home in Louisville. She stated, “For me, this is not just an exciting professional opportunity, but also a homecoming. My family has deep roots in this region, and the chance to return to this place is deeply meaningful.”
KCD looks forward to welcoming Ms. Carey to campus for several visits throughout the 2024-25academic year so that she can begin getting to know our community and making preparationsfor a smooth transition. She will work collaboratively with Interim Head of School Jon Kellamand the Board to allow her to transition into her role seamlessly and effectively next summer.
About Kentucky Country Day School
Kentucky Country Day School is a private JK–12, coeducational school located on a spacious 80+ acre campus in Louisville, KY. KCD combines a rigorous academic program with a wide variety of athletic and extracurricular programs. Our outstanding faculty creates an intimate learning environment that is both challenging and supportive. Learn more at www.kcd.org.