For over 100 years, The Cushman School has been a beacon of educational excellence, thanks to the visionary women who have led it. From its founding in 1924, The Cushman School has flourished under the leadership of three inspiring female educators: Dr. Laura Cushman, Dr. Joan Drody Lutton, and Dr. Arvi Balseiro. These innovators have not only preserved the School’s core mission of providing a holistic, character-focused, and joyful learning environment, but have also continuously advanced its academic offerings to meet the needs of each new generation.
The Cushman School, a renowned educational institution that has stood the test of time for over a century, is a testament to the transformative power of leadership. Since its founding in 1924, the school has been shaped by the vision and dedication of Dr. Laura Cushman, who laid its foundational values of holistic and joyful learning. Her influence set the School on a path toward academic and personal success for students.
Following in her footsteps, Dr. Joan Drody Lutton guided the school through a crucial period of growth, bringing stability and ensuring it remained rooted in its mission. Under her leadership, the School strengthened its academic programs and maintained its focus on character-building.
Today, Dr. Arvi Balseiro continues this legacy. As Head of School since 2012, her innovative approach to curriculum and instruction has reinforced The Cushman School’s commitment to joyful learning and academic excellence.
The School’s century-long legacy is a testament to their innovative leadership, tireless dedication, and deep love for the students, families, faculty, and staff that make up the Cushman community. From navigating early challenges to pioneering new educational approaches, these women have shaped a nurturing environment where intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and social responsibility thrive.
The Cushman School’s Leaders
Dr. Laura Cushman
Founder & Principal (1924-1980)
Dr. Laura Cushman, originally from Iowa, moved to Miami in the early 1900s. As a dedicated educator in the county school system, she founded The Cushman School in 1924, starting with just a porch in her home. By 1926, the School had relocated to the Mediterranean-style building that remains part of today’s campus. Nestled in a historic and international neighborhood of Miami, the campus now blends beautifully renovated and new structures. Dr. Cushman was deeply involved with the school from its inception until her passing in 1986. Inspired by educational pioneers like John Dewey and Maria Montessori, she believed every child could thrive when provided with a nurturing and supportive environment.
Dr. Joan Drody Lutton
Head of School (1980-2012)
In the early 1980s, Dr. Laura Cushman sought a successor to continue her vision for the School, and Dr. Joan Lutton, a former journalist turned educator, stepped into the role. Serving first as Principal and later as Head of School, Dr. Lutton brought a unique blend of passion, leadership, and innovation to The Cushman School. During her tenure, the School not only thrived academically but also secured a stronger financial foundation, ensuring its ability to grow and evolve for generations to come. She championed a holistic approach to education, maintaining a focus on character development while expanding the school’s curriculum and facilities. Her commitment to both students and staff created a lasting impact, and when she retired in 2012, Dr. Lutton left behind a legacy of excellence that continues to inspire the Cushman community.
Dr. Arvi Balseiro
Head of School (2012-Present)
Dr. Arvi Balseiro, who has served The Cushman School community for 38 years, is the institution’s third Head of School in its century-long history. Before assuming this role in 2012, she held various positions, including Primary School Director, Curriculum Director, and Dean of Faculty, while also teaching for many years. Mentored by Dr. Lutton for over 25 years, she is committed to upholding Dr. Cushman’s vision, ensuring that The Cushman School remains a nurturing environment where joyful learning thrives. “A happy environment, where children feel free to explore, create, and engage in meaningful projects that unleash their potential, is at the heart of what we do,” she emphasizes.
Empowered Leadership
The remarkable leadership of the women who have guided The Cushman School is part of a broader historical movement that saw women taking pivotal roles in shaping institutions across the U.S. This movement was exemplified by the establishment of the Women’s Bureau within the U.S. Department of Labor in 1920, a landmark achievement in the fight for women’s rights. Just four years later, in 1924, Dr. Laura Cushman founded The Cushman School, marking the beginning of a legacy of strong female leadership that would span a century.
The Women’s Bureau, under the leadership of figures like Mary Anderson, advocated for wage equality, workplace safety, and the unique challenges faced by working mothers. Their work not only transformed the workplace but also embraced the value of women’s leadership in shaping national policies. The founding of The Cushman School during this era reflects how women, empowered by broader societal changes, were leading and innovating in education. Dr. Cushman, along with her successors, Dr. Joan Lutton and Dr. Arvi Balseiro, benefited from this larger wave of progress. Their leadership mirrored the advancements in women’s roles throughout the nation, demonstrating the growing recognition and influence of women in both education and society at large.
Surviving a 100-Year Feat
The longevity and success of The Cushman School is a testament to the resilience and visionary leadership of its heads, who have navigated the institution through nearly a century of challenges, including wars, the Great Depression, and devastating hurricanes in South Florida. The School has withstood these crises while maintaining its commitment to providing quality education. This remarkable feat places The Cushman School in rare company, as less than 0.1% of organizations founded in the 20th century have reached their 100th anniversary, according to a Harvard Business Review study.
The women who have led The Cushman School exemplify a rare combination of strategic vision, adaptability, and dedication to the school’s core values. Their leadership ensured the school not only survived but thrived, continually adapting to changing educational and societal needs. Through their guidance, The Cushman School has remained a pillar of excellence, navigating crises and evolving with the times while remaining true to its mission.
Celebrating a Century of Leadership and Impact
As The Cushman School celebrates its 100th anniversary, we honor the visionary women who have guided its journey. From Dr. Laura Cushman’s foundational leadership to Dr. Joan Lutton’s strategic stewardship and Dr. Arvi Balseiro’s forward-thinking approach, each has played a pivotal role in shaping the School’s legacy.
Their influence is far-reaching, impacting the lives of countless students and ensuring that The Cushman School remains a leader in education. As we look ahead, we celebrate their leadership and the bright future they have built for future generations.