Recent News

 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. 

Last month, we joyfully celebrated the graduation of our 8th graders. Many of these students have been a part of the Good Shepherd community since Kindergarten, and their heartfelt speeches reflected the deep connections and memories they’ve built over the years.

Ms. Brook honored each graduate with meaningful and witty alliterative tributes, capturing the unique character and spirit of every student. The ceremony also featured a nostalgic slideshow showcasing moments from their classroom experiences and outdoor adventures throughout their time at GSES.

Next year, our graduates will take the next step in their academic journeys at a variety of outstanding high schools, including Appomattox Regional Governor’s School, Open High School, Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School, and Trinity Episcopal School.

We are incredibly proud of each of our graduates and can’t wait to see all the amazing things they will accomplish in high school and beyond.

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.

Last month, we celebrated our graduating 8th graders at Good Shepherd Episcopal School with a memorable ceremony. We are incredibly proud of all these students for their accomplishments during their time here. Their hard work, dedication, and commitment to both academics and extracurricular activities have been truly inspiring.

These students were active and enthusiastic members of the GSES community. Many of them participated in the Mountain Biking Club, where they learned not only biking skills but also teamwork and perseverance. In the Eco Club, our students took on leadership roles, showing their dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. Additionally, they made impactful contributions through the Student Government Association (SGA).

Each one of them has a bright and promising path ahead. Our graduates will be attending a variety of schools throughout the greater Richmond region, including Appomattox Regional Governor’s School, John Randolph Tucker High School, and Open High School. In addition to attending these schools, some of our graduates will be participating in competitive specialty programs that cater to their unique interests and talents. Programs such as Spanish Immersion and Humanities will provide them with enriched learning experiences and the opportunity to delve deeper into their passions.

We are confident that the foundation built at Good Shepherd Episcopal School will serve our graduates well as they transition to their new educational environments. 

Congratulations to the GSES 8th Grade Class of 2024!