November 1st is Founder’s Day, Dr. Laura Cushman’s birthday. This is a day to reflect on her vision for creating a school that is ambitious, inclusive and joyful. Her progressive thinking to inspire a happy environment in which students thrive is our School’s hallmark difference and a significant aspect of our enduring legacy established more than a century ago.
Dr. Laura Cushman moved to Miami from Iowa in the early 1900s. An accomplished teacher in the county school system, she opened The Cushman School on the porch of her home in 1924 with just twelve students. Two years later, the School moved into the Mediterranean-style building on what is now our main campus. Today, the School consists of a charming mix of renovated and new buildings spread across a beautifully landscaped campus in a historic pocket of international Miami. Dr. Cushman was highly engaged with the School’s development from its founding until her passing in 1986.
Throughout her career, Dr. Cushman benefited from the wisdom of world-renowned education leaders like John Dewey and Maria Montessori. Like her contemporaries, she believed that every student possessed the ability to experience success in school and in life when provided with a nurturing, happy environment, deep with encouragement and facilitation. She believed deeply in an environment where children could develop mentally, physically, and in character, holding that “a happy attitude” is foundational to true learning:
“A school seeks to develop the child mentally, physically and in character growth. To do this, the child must be placed in happy surroundings…” — Dr. Cushman
In the early 1980s, Dr. Laura Cushman received a memorable birthday message from President Ronald Reagan, honoring her visionary leadership and lasting impact on education. The note served as a meaningful acknowledgment of her dedication to shaping young minds and building a school rooted in character, curiosity, and community.
Today, that same spirit of excellence continues to be recognized. In celebration of The Cushman School’s 100th anniversary, our Head of School was presented with an official Proclamation from the Miami-Dade County Mayor’s Office, signed by Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. Dated November 1st in honor of Dr. Cushman’s birthday, the Proclamation recognizes The Cushman School as the oldest, continuously-operating independent school in Miami. This remarkable milestone reflects a century of commitment to Dr. Cushman’s mission and the enduring values that continue to guide our community.
Dr. Laura Cushman believed that a child who demonstrates personal and joint responsibility, accountability, courtesy, empathy, kindness, and industrious, hard-working behavior will achieve their personal academic best. These endeavors—industry, courtesy, responsibility, and scholarship—continue to serve as the pillars of every aspect of our programming and school life, reflecting a framework that emphasizes the holistic development of each student beyond academics. Each pillar represents a fundamental value that nurtures both personal growth and overall well-being.
- Industry: This pillar emphasizes the value of hard work, diligence, and perseverance. It encourages students to develop a strong work ethic, motivation, and the ability to consistently apply themselves to tasks and challenges.
- Courtesy: Courtesy in education refers to cultivating respectful behavior, empathy, and good manners. It involves fostering positive interpersonal skills, understanding cultural differences, and promoting a supportive and inclusive environment among students.
- Responsibility: Responsibility encompasses both personal accountability and social responsibility. It encourages students to take ownership of their actions, make ethical decisions, and contribute positively to their communities. This pillar also includes environmental stewardship and awareness of global issues. Dr. Laura Cushman believed that teaching responsibility is most important for helping students become better citizens. (George, 2006)
- Scholarship: Scholarship refers to the pursuit of knowledge, intellectual curiosity, and academic achievement. It involves critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning. This pillar encourages students to engage deeply with subjects, develop a love for learning, and strive for academic excellence. Together, these four pillars provide a comprehensive framework that aims to develop well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible, respectful, diligent, and intellectually curious. They emphasize the importance of nurturing both cognitive and non-cognitive skills to prepare students for success in various aspects of life.
As we celebrate Founder’s Day, we honor how Dr. Cushman’s vision continues to guide us each day through the joy of learning, the kind of atmosphere she created and wanted for every child. From our earliest days, The Cushman School has also upheld her belief in inclusivity and empowerment, welcoming diverse students and fostering the potential within each one.