This school year marks Rye Country Day’s second Book Club program, bringing together parents/guardians and teachers to read and discuss themes that are especially important for school communities. 

On the morning of November 20, a group of 25 readers discussed 10-25: The Science Of Motivating Young People by David Yaeger at the fall Parent-Faculty Book Club. Structured as a practical guide based on neuroscience and psychology, the book promotes the benefits of a “mentor mindset,” which combines high standards with deep respect in order to better motivate and connect 10- to 25-year-olds.

To kick off the meeting, participants were invited to share their takeaways from the book as they pertained to their personal styles of motivating their children, students, and other youth in their orbit. RCDS teachers elaborated on ways the mentor mindset is woven into daily life RCDS, starting with our core values, which emphasize respect and the pursuit of excellence for all.

The next Parent-Faculty Book Club meeting, scheduled for Friday, February 27, 2026, will cover Of Boys and Men by Richard Reeves. RCDS community, please sign up here.

Thanks to all of our participants!

2025-26 Book Club Readings
Fall Parent-Faculty Book Club: The Science of Motivating Young People by David Yeager
Winter Parent-Faculty Book Club: Of Boys and Men by Richard Reeves
Spring Parent-Faculty Book Club: Raising Mentally Strong Kids by Amen & Fay

Faculty Participants
Joanne Aventuro, Grade 3 Teacher
Carrie Burke, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Jen DeVito, Upper School Librarian
Kamauru Johnson, Director of Counseling; Upper School Psychologist
Rachel Levey, Upper School Psychologist
Vivek Freitas, Grade 9 Dean; Upper School English Teacher
Jenny Heath, Upper School Assistant Principal; Upper School English Teacher
Maggie Parker, Upper School French Teacher
Stacey Sotirhos, Lower School Principal
Pen Vineyard, Middle School Principal