More than twenty years ago, I was lucky enough to be part of a small group of visionary parents who were unsatisfied with their educational options here in Pittsburgh’s East End. The parents wanted a very particular learning environment – one without the distractions of high school, and where a deeper sense of warmth, community, and commitment to creative learning were foundational.
Under ambitious board leadership, and arising from the closing of the McEwan School, Kentucky Avenue School was founded! It was an amazing time, and for the school’s first two years, I was lucky enough to serve as its Head of School and teacher. Growing a K-8 school – any school – is quite a challenge, and the fact that KAS continues to thrive today is a testament to the school’s philosophy, teachers, and stewardship.
For the two decades since, I have lived overseas with my wife working, and have raised two sons. During this time, I have been a school director and consultant at international schools in China, Jamaica, Venezuela, Morocco, India, Indonesia, and elsewhere. There, I have had the pleasure of working in some of the most diverse, robust, and creative elementary and middle schools imaginable.
My family and I have now returned to Pittsburgh – to our home in Point Breeze – and back to Kentucky Avenue School where I again serve as the Head of School.
It is very rare that a school director gets the opportunity to return to the setting where their educational beliefs were initially explored and forged. It is true that KAS has evolved, and today it reflects the personalities and needs of current students, families, and teachers. However, the fundamental belief system remains deeply rooted.
Our teacher quality is exceptional. Classroom creativity and individual care is visible throughout the school. Differentiation and project-based learning remain as instructional cornerstones. Students who crave a more personal and intimate approach to learning prosper. In these ways, little has changed at Kentucky Avenue School from our inaugural years.
As I return to KAS as its Head of School, my primary objective is that KAS will be identified and remain as a first choice K-8 school here in Pittsburgh’s East End.
I welcome all parents and neighbors to visit us – we’d be happy to meet you, and share our wonderful school with you.
Respectfully yours,
Brian Horvath
Head of School