The Thornton–Donovan School (TD) was founded as the New Rochelle School and Kindergarten in New Rochelle, New York in 1901. The first teacher and headmistress was Emily Scott Thornton, a Philadelphia native educated at University College Nottingham (now the University of Nottingham). The headmaster as of 2023 was Douglas E. Fleming, Jr.

The school is now at its third campus, on Overlook Circle in the Beechmont neighborhood of New Rochelle. It is in the buildings of three former homes, including the former Andrew Crawford estate (now the Main Building). Headmaster Douglas Fleming has referred to the final product as the Field of Dreams.

Summer challenge program

In the summer, the school also holds a summer camp program, this program is for children aged 3–14. The children are split into two divisions: Play School (3–7 years) and Sports Fitness (7–14 years).

Thematic language education

Middle and Upper School curricula are themed annually on an area of the world. The school has 35 sister schools in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. During the school year, students are selected to go to one of several sister schools for an exchange program.

The arts and community connections

  • There is a mural, "The Constellations", on the first floor of the main building.
  • There is a mural, "Aspirational Music", by Lumen Martin Winter in the school's main building.
  • The school has connections to Lions Clubs International, a worldwide service organization.

Notable alumni

  • Wayne Allyn Root – the 2008 United States Libertarian Party vice-presidential nominee. He attended the school from 1977 to 1979 when he graduated.
  • Joey Kramer - The drummer from Aerosmith.

Headmasters

  • Emily Scott Thornton – 1901–1945
  • Genevieve F. Berns – 1945–1968
  • Douglas E. Fleming Jr. – 1968–2025
  • Virginia Keating-Miller — 2025–present

References

  • Thornton–Donovan School website
  • TD Private School School Report
  • Video about the Thornton–Donovan School