Recent News

Congratulations to our remarkable 8th-grade graduates!

We recently celebrated this important milestone as our graduates prepared to take their next steps beyond Good Shepherd. Their hard work, perseverance, leadership, and spirit have left a lasting mark on our school community, and we could not be prouder of all they have accomplished.

As they begin this exciting new chapter, we wish each graduate success, courage, and joy in all that lies ahead. May they continue to grow in wisdom, faith, compassion, and confidence as they pursue their dreams and make a positive difference in the world.

We are also deeply grateful to the parents, families, teachers, staff, coaches, mentors, and friends who have supported, encouraged, and cared for these students throughout their journey. Their guidance, dedication, and love have helped shape the young people we celebrate today.

Congratulations, graduates! Wherever your path leads, you will always be part of the Good Shepherd family. We are cheering you on and look forward to all the wonderful things you will do.

 Church of the Good Shepherd and Good Shepherd Episcopal School Commit to a Shared Future 

 RICHMOND, VA, May 8, 2026. — The Church of the Good Shepherd and Good Shepherd Episcopal School are pleased to announce the signing of a ten-year lease agreement, securing the school’s home at 4207 Forest Hill Avenue and strengthening the longstanding relationship between the Church and School.

Founded by the Church in 1971, Good Shepherd Episcopal School serves students from Nature Preschool through eighth grade and is known for its close-knit community and immersive, place-based outdoor education programming. Nestled within walking distance of Forest Hill Park and the James River, the school leverages its surroundings to bring learning to life, engaging students in real-world experiences and approaching traditional subjects in compelling, thought-provoking ways—all while remaining committed to welcoming students of all backgrounds.

The new agreement reflects a shared commitment to stability, collaboration, and stewardship of a campus that has served generations of children and families. Leaders from both the Church and School worked together thoughtfully and constructively to clarify expectations, strengthen communication, and affirm a shared vision for the years ahead.

“This agreement reflects the best of who we are as neighbors and partners,” said Rev. Terry Miller, Rector of the Church of the Good Shepherd. “The Church and School share a long history, a beautiful campus, and a deep commitment to serving the community. We are grateful to move forward together with clarity, trust, and a renewed sense of shared purpose.”

Elizabeth Cleland, Chair of the Good Shepherd Episcopal School Board of Trustees, noted the importance of the agreement for the school’s future.

“This ten-year agreement gives Good Shepherd Episcopal School the stability needed to plan wisely, invest thoughtfully, and continue strengthening the student experience,” Cleland said. “We appreciate the Church’s partnership and the collaborative spirit that made this agreement possible.”

For more than five decades, the Church and School have shared not only a campus, but also a commitment to community, care, and formation. The new lease affirms that partnership and provides a strong foundation for the decade ahead. 

We are so proud to share that The Nature Preschool at GSES was spotlighted on the Discover the Forest website for their “Sounds All Around” activity! (www.discovertheforest.org/activities/sounds-all-around)

Discover the Forest is an initiative that helps families and educators find simple, fun ways to play, learn, and grow outdoors. Their site offers tested activities, nature-play ideas, and research-based tools to build connection, curiosity, and confidence in nature.

This particular activity, “Sounds All Around,” is adapted from Project Learning Tree, an award-winning environmental education program that uses the forest as a “window on the world.” It supports hands-on, multi-disciplinary learning and helps young people develop critical thinking, creativity, and environmental stewardship.

We couldn’t be more excited that @thenaturepreschoolatgses was chosen to illustrate this activity! It speaks to the heart of what we do — listening, exploring, and learning with our senses out in nature. Whether you’re taking a quiet walk or pausing to sit and listen, this activity shows how powerful and joyful it can be to slow down and connect.

Good Shepherd Episcopal School is pleased to announce that Kathleen K. Tappen has been appointed as the new Head of School effective July 1, 2025. Kathy was selected from a talented group of candidates following an extensive national search. She brings vast experience in education and leadership and a strong focus on creating inclusive, student-centered learning environments.

Kathy currently teaches fourth grade at GSES. She emphasizes hands-on, engaging learning that connects students to their community and fosters creativity and curiosity. Her career includes leadership roles such as Director of Instruction at St. Andrew’s School, where she managed curriculum alignment, teacher development, and instructional technology.

In addition to her work in schools, Kathy has experience in strategic communication and nonprofit leadership. At the Children’s Home Society of Virginia, she worked to raise awareness about foster care adoption. Earlier in her career, she held senior roles at The Martin Agency, managing campaigns for major brands like GEICO and Coca-Cola.

Kathy’s educational background includes a master’s degree in teaching from Mary Baldwin University and a bachelor’s degree in communication arts from Southern Methodist University. She has also participated in professional development focused on leadership, project-based learning, and classroom management.

“I am excited to step into this role and continue supporting the students, teachers, and families of GSES,” Kathy said. “This is a wonderful community, and I look forward to building on its strengths as we prepare our students for the future.”

Kathy will succeed Interim Head of School Lori Jobe, who has been instrumental in shepherding the school through this transition period. Kathy and Lori will work closely with the school's leadership team to ensure a smooth leadership transfer over the coming months.

Good Shepherd Episcopal School looks forward to Kathy’s leadership and commitment to guiding the school in its mission to provide academic excellence and spiritual growth in a supportive and inclusive environment.