
Before coming to D-E, History Department Chair, Arika “Ari” Easley-Houser taught at Rutgers Prep and several colleges and universities, including Montclair State University and New York University. A socio-cultural historian focused on United States history, she received her Ph.D. from Rutgers University and a certificate in school management from the Harvard Business School. She was recently selected for a National Association of Independent Schools Fellowship for Aspiring School Heads. Now in her third year of heading the department, Easley-Houser speaks to the importance of historical inquiry for students and how the history curriculum must reflect and respond to the diversity of students. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
A Sweet D-E Tradition: Honey Harvest 2026
Another Honey Harvest is in the books! This cross-divisional learning opportunity, primarily for 6th graders, transforms the Middle School Teaching Kitchen into an interactive exhibit, showcasing how we harvest honey from our apiary on campus. Ms. Tasha Urbanowski,...
Connecting Classrooms Through Creativity
Big imaginations team up once again! For the second year, Class of 2027 Dean Stephanie “Tuc” Tucker assigned the “Small Stories” project to her Creative Writing class of juniors and seniors. This wonderful opportunity pairs Upper School students with a talent for...
Pumpkin Patch Discovery Day Highlights
It’s fall, y’all! D-E 360° AfterCare and Enrichment (ACE) families of faculty/staff enjoyed a fun-filled Pumpkin Patch Discovery Day on Friday, October 9, during a break in classes for professional development. “Our young explorers brought incredible energy and...
Beyond the Classroom: D-E’s Fall Trips
Fall trips, both overnight and full-day outings, are a rite of passage for D-E’s Middle School and Upper School students. These trips provide opportunities for student bonding, experiential learning, and, in some instances, community service. This year, 7th graders...
10.7.26 Information on Photos & Parking
A Return to Her Roots: An Environmentalist Alumna Visits Campus
D-E alumna and environmentalist Wendy Gordon Rockefeller ’75 returned to campus today for a tour of the Nettie-Louise Coit Teaching Garden and a chance to share her passion for environmental stewardship with students. Ms. Gordon began her day with 6th Grade Dean Ms....
Chuseok & Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration Highlights
The Chuseok/Mid-Autumn Festival, hosted by the Chinese Culture Club (CCC) and Korean Culture Club (KCC), returned to the Wharton Lessin Dining Hall last week for East Asian snacks, mooncake making, and more. World Language Chair Mr. Mike Hegedus, CCC faculty advisor,...
10.6.26 October Dean Updates
Counting Isn’t As Easy as 1-2-3
Submitted by Jannet Park, LS Math Specialist
One Word For a Great Year
Submitted by: Rachel Brainin and Michelle Sussmann, Third Grade Teachers







