Mary McKenna, a beloved 3rd grade teacher in the Lower School for Girls passed away on April 27, 2025.

A woman of dedication and kindness, she will be greatly missed in our school and community.

Ms. McKenna could be seen walking to school every morning, or even around Chestnut Hill every weekend. Her kind words always helped students, friends, and teachers alike, and her way of making people feel heard will not be forgotten.

A dedicated teacher, Ms. McKenna spent decades teaching at SCH, even back when it was still known as Springside. Lilianna Zappile ’27, a former student of hers, said, “Ms. McKenna was an incredibly heartwarming and inclusive teacher, as she always made sure her students were happy and felt comfortable throughout her time working in the Lower School.”

“She was always doing some random act of kindness for us here at school … She was always out in the hallway lending a hand to get boots on or off, snowsuit pants on or off, backpacks filled and on little shoulders, coats, gloves, hats on or off. Mary could just sense need and stepped up to help,” said longtime colleague and dear friend Peggy Grady.

Another former student remarked that she could always be counted on to put a smile on your face or ask you how you were doing, or what was going on in your life.

Quinn Clotman ’27  shared a similar sentiment: “It just felt like she cared about all of her students equally. She never had favorites. She was equal in her love for students.”

Ms. McKenna was known for her kind words, but for also pushing students to be their best, even as 3rd graders, striving to get them to reach their highest potential.

Her impact on the school was profound, and she will be missed, but not forgotten, throughout the halls of SCH.