As I close out my first year as Dean of Students at Steamboat Mountain School, I find myself filled with deep gratitude—for the lessons learned, the laughter shared, and the extraordinary young people I’ve had the privilege of working alongside.

This year has been, in many ways, a whirlwind. Getting to know our students—each with their own story, their own spark—has been the most energizing and grounding part of the role. Whether through advisory check-ins, evening gaming sessions in the dorm, student-led initiatives, or those small moments of connection between classes in the Student Lounge and Library, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful this community can be when we lean into trust, care, and curiosity.

Saying Goodbye to the Class of 2025
One of the most bittersweet moments this spring was bidding farewell to the incredible class of 2025. This senior class has left an indelible mark on our campus culture. They led with authenticity, mentored younger students with grace, and showed us all what it means to be both independent and deeply connected. Watching them cross the graduation stage, I felt overwhelming pride—not just for what they’ve accomplished, but for who they’ve become. They leave behind big shoes to fill and a legacy of courage, kindness, and thoughtful leadership.

Summer Projects: Campus Upgrades & Planning Ahead
Even while students head out for summer adventures, things are in full swing here on campus. We’re excited to share that the Cedar Boys Dorm is getting a significant upgrade, including new windows and a brand-new front deck. Both Cedar and the Aspen Girls Dorm are also getting electronic locks. These improvements will enhance comfort, safety, and the welcoming vibe that makes residential life at SMS so special.

Behind the scenes, our faculty and staff are also hard at work preparing for the year ahead. Our focus for next year is clear: belonging. We know that students thrive when they feel seen, heard, and valued—and everything we’re building reflects that commitment.

A Year of Belonging: What’s Coming Next
Here’s a glimpse of what’s ahead in 2025–26:

• Advisory 2.0 – We’re rolling out a robust advisory curriculum that centers on connection, empathy, identity, and growth. Weekly lessons will give students space to reflect, support one another, and build meaningful relationships across grade levels.
• Heritage Month Celebrations – We’ll be honoring cultural heritage months more intentionally through Campfire meetings, student and teacher-led storytelling, and reflective programming that deepens our understanding of each other.
• Revamped Grade-Level Seminars – From ninth-grade orientation to twelfth-grade transition planning, we’re reimagining our seminar program to better support students in the developmental moments that matter most. These sessions will integrate social-emotional learning, leadership skills, college admissions, and practical life tools.
• Residential Curriculum Rollout – In the dorms, we’ll be introducing a new Residential Curriculum designed to nurture emotional intelligence, social connection, self-reflection, and personal responsibility. Through intentional programming and casual moments alike, our evening and weekend staff will be equipped to help students grow not just as learners, but as people.

All of this is grounded in a simple belief: that every student deserves to feel like they belong, not just at Steamboat Mountain School—but in the world.

Looking Ahead
I’m proud of the work we’ve done together this year—and even more excited for what’s ahead. Thank you to every student, parent, faculty member, and staff person who has made this community what it is: bold, kind, and full of heart.

If this year was about building relationships and planting seeds, then next year will be about growing deeper roots—and making sure everyone feels at home.

See you in the fall.

Warmly,
Matt Thomas
Dean of Students
Steamboat Mountain School