Remembering Claudia McClure Daggett, Head of School (1995-2006)
July 28, 2020
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of former Friends Academy Head of School Claudia McClure Daggett, who passed away peacefully at home in Cotuit, Massachusetts, on July 22, after a seven-month battle with glioblastoma.
Devoted to family and the growth and development of independent schools, Claudia was well known nationally as an educator of significant accomplishment and contribution. Her 40-year career in education took her to schools in Wisconsin, Maryland, and Massachusetts, including 11 years as Friends' Head of School. In 2014, she was appointed Executive Director of ISACS (Independent School Association of the Central States) where she served for nearly six years until her diagnosis. She thrived on working with both individuals and institutions, improving the educational experience for children and the adults who work with them.
"Starting at the NAIS Institute for New Heads, Claudia warmly welcomed me to Friends Academy," said Head of School Ben Kennedy. "Over the last few years, she served as a source of wisdom and perspective. Claudia did remarkable things for our school in her 11-year tenure and is rightfully remembered with great fondness by our community. From our conversations, it was clear that Claudia continued to care deeply for FA even after her career took her on to new opportunities. We have all lost a tremendous person and educator."
The trustees who served during Claudia's tenure as Head of Friends Academy from 1995 to 2006 established the Claudia McClure Daggett Distinguished Service Award, presented each year to a faculty or staff member who, in the opinion of their colleagues, best exemplifies the five virtues so firmly embraced through Mrs. Daggett’s leadership: learning, respect, responsibility, honesty, and safety. Today we think of those virtues and others in terms of the FA Bees.
In lieu of flowers, Claudia's family has suggested donations in her honor and memory to Friends Academy in support of the Claudia Daggett Distinguished Service Award.
A virtual memorial service to celebrate Claudia’s life will take place later in August or in September and will be announced for all who are interested.