Human Connection
How We Live This Commitment
Belonging at Derryfield is intentional. Guided by research-informed best practices and grounded in our mission, we advance this work across every dimension of school life:
Leadership
Leadership at Derryfield is a shared responsibility grounded in trust, purpose, and cultural humility. From the Board of Trustees to students and families, every member of our community plays a vital role in shaping an inclusive and forward-thinking culture. We foster leadership that is relational, reflective, and responsive—modeling integrity, empathy, and ethical decision-making. Through initiatives like Peer Leadership and Professional Learning Communities, we empower individuals across roles and identities to contribute meaningfully, take initiative, and guide Derryfield’s ongoing growth.
Policy and Procedures
Derryfield’s policies and procedures reinforce our commitment to inclusion, equity, and institutional resilience. With clear decision-making, inclusive processes, and intentional systems, we ensure that all community members—students, families, faculty, and staff—are supported, informed, and engaged. These structures align with our mission and strategic commitments, enabling consistent, values-driven implementation across the school.
Data
We use data as a tool for reflection, equity, and continuous improvement. From climate assessments and student feedback to program evaluations and strategic planning metrics, data informs our efforts to strengthen well-being, learning outcomes, and inclusive practices. By integrating data into decision-making processes, we enhance transparency and ensure that our goals remain aligned with the lived experiences of our community.
Communication Access
At Derryfield, communication is intentional, transparent, and inclusive—ensuring that every member of our community has equitable access to information and opportunities for engagement. We are committed to removing language and accessibility barriers by providing translation and interpretation services for families and individuals whose primary language is not English. Through clear communication channels, multilingual support, and culturally responsive practices, we foster meaningful connection and shared understanding across our diverse school community.
Cultural Competence
At Derryfield, cultural competence is a continuous learning process for faculty and staff, grounded in curiosity, humility, and a shared commitment to belonging. We center this work through structured, facilitative discussions that create space for reflection, dialogue, and growth. These programs prioritize relationship-building, challenge assumptions, and support educators in creating inclusive environments where all students and colleagues feel seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Community Engagement and Engagement
Community engagement at Derryfield is rooted in collaboration, reciprocity, and shared purpose. In partnership with the External Affairs team and the Parent Family Association (PFA), we strengthen connections with families, alumni, and the broader community to support student learning, foster belonging, and extend the school’s impact beyond campus. Through inclusive events, outreach initiatives, and relationship-centered programming, we create opportunities for all stakeholders to contribute, connect, and grow together as part of a vibrant, mission-driven community.
Workforce Diversity
Derryfield is committed to building and sustaining a diverse, inclusive, and mission-aligned faculty and staff. In partnership with division heads and members of the senior leadership team, we intentionally recruit, hire, and support educators who reflect the identities, experiences, and perspectives of our student body and broader world. Through inclusive hiring practices, targeted outreach, and professional development, we foster a thriving educational workforce where every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered to contribute fully to our community and purpose.
Who Brings This Commitment to Life
Each of the stakeholders below plays a vital role in shaping and advancing our equity and belonging work.
Faculty and Staff
Our educators and staff are the heart of this work. Through ongoing professional development, collaborative learning communities, and wellness support, they are empowered to design inclusive experiences that reflect the richness of our student body. Grounded in trust and purpose, their work cultivates classrooms where all students can grow intellectually, ethically, and emotionally.
Students
Students are not only learners, they are leaders in building belonging. At Derryfield, we offer intentional opportunities for student voice, cross-cultural dialogue, peer leadership, and personal discovery. We honor each student’s unique story, empowering them to engage differences with curiosity, practice empathy, and take meaningful action in their communities.
Families
Families are vital partners in shaping an inclusive and caring community. Through open communication, active participation, and shared learning, we build strong connections rooted in mutual respect. We invite families to join us in fostering an environment where every child feels safe, celebrated, and known.
Parent Faculty Association (PFA)
The PFA helps build a community where all families feel a sense of belonging. By supporting inclusive programming and joyful gatherings, the PFA plays a key role in creating spaces where diverse voices are welcomed, relationships are deepened, and shared values are strengthened.
Trustees
Our Board of Trustees ensures that the values of equity, belonging, and care are embedded into the school’s long-term vision. With courageous leadership and ethical clarity, trustees support policies and strategic decisions that sustain an inclusive community and reflect Derryfield’s mission in action.
Alumni
Alumni are a living link between Derryfield’s past, present, and future. We welcome alumni to share their experiences, perspectives, and leadership in shaping a school culture that honors legacy while embracing growth. Their continued engagement helps foster connection, mentorship, and purpose across generations.
Greater Manchester Communities
We recognize that our work does not stop at campus borders. Through partnerships, service, and mutual learning, Derryfield seeks to contribute meaningfully to the Greater Manchester region. We aim to be both a reflective neighbor and an active collaborator in building a more just, vibrant, and connected community.
Meet the Team
Anela Kruščica
Anela Kruščica
- Job Title:
- Director of Equity and Belonging
- Education:
- Southern New Hampshire University - B.S., M.B.A.
- Email:
- akruscica@derryfield.org
Tony Bonjorno
Tony Bonjorno
- Job Title:
- Arts & Design Department; GLOW Advisor
- Email:
- tbonjorno@derryfield.org
In addition to teaching general music, Tony leads the MS and US string ensembles, is the music director for our school musicals when he is not playing violin in the pit orchestra, and teaches a songwriting elective. He is the advisor to the GLOW Club. Prior to joining the DS faculty, Tony taught at the Surry Village Charter School and the Micro Academy Charter School, and taught private voice and violin lessons. In addition to teaching, Tony writes, plays, and records his own music and is very involved in youth and adult theater.
Courtney Cheetham
Courtney Cheetham
- Job Title:
- Director of Wellness; Leadership, Ethics, and Development Program Coordinator
- Education:
- Boston College - B.A., Rivier University - M.Ed., Rivier University - CAGS
- Email:
- ccheetham@derryfield.org
Role: Director of Wellness, Algebra 2 and LEAD Teacher
Other Hats: Girls varsity basketball coach, Advisor – Grade 8
Favorite Assignment: Ropes Course – In LEAD we are able to do the indoor climbing wall and outdoor ropes course. It’s a ton of fun to watch students develop confidence and step out of their comfort zones on the high ropes. It’s really high!
Favorite DS Tradition: Community meeting – it’s a unique opportunity to hear from all kinds of voices and to truly bring the community together with such cool presentations!
Thomas Eng
Thomas Eng
- Job Title:
- STEAM; Science Department
- Education:
- University of Pennsylvania - B.S.E., Princeton University - M.S.E.
- Email:
- teng@derryfield.org
Brandon Gauthier
Brandon Gauthier
- Job Title:
- History Department; Director of Global Education
- Education:
- Elon University - B.A., Fordham University - M.A., Fordham University - Ph.D.
- Email:
- bgauthier@derryfield.org
