WAB Podcast | What Does the Board of Trustees Do? 

For most students, “the Board of Trustees” might sound like something happening far away from daily school life. But in this week’s special podcast episode, three High School students, Jai, Sophia, and Elsa sat down with John Gordon, WAB’s Board Chair and parent of two WAB students, to find out what the Board really does and how it shapes the school’s future. 

The conversation unfolded with the students leading thoughtful questions about governance, sustainability, and what it means to prepare WAB for the next 30 years. 

“The Board’s role isn’t to run the school day to day,” John explained. “Our focus is long-term, making sure WAB continues to thrive, stays true to its mission, and is still here 30 or 60 years from now.” 

The students were surprised to learn how diverse the all-volunteer Board is, with members, including founders, parents, and alumni, and how they work behind the scenes to support everything from finances to facilities and long-term strategy. 

When the conversation turned to the future, the students reflected on what they hope will stay constant at WAB: the sense of belonging, close relationships with teachers, and an open, inclusive community. 

“I’d love to come back to WAB in 30 years and still feel that same warmth, that feeling of being welcomed and included,” one student shared. 

John agreed, noting that the Board’s work is guided by the same vision that shapes learning at WAB, connecting, challenging, and inspiring students to make a difference in the world. 

“What I hope,” John said, “is that WAB students always feel empowered to lead, to see themselves as people who can imagine, create, and make change happen.” 

Listen to the full conversation to hear how WAB students and leaders are thinking together about the school’s future.