Creating Conditions to Thrive at Cate: An Interview with Ms. Lockett

By: Devon Liang '27

At Cate School, adolescent development is a top priority, and Head of School, Ms. Alex Lockett, is committed to leading an environment where students truly flourish. Her vision encompasses academic excellence, as well as emotional well-being, personal growth, and a strong community. In this exclusive interview, Ms. Lockett shared insights into how Cate fosters student development and the institutional priorities that have shaped the school's approach.

A Holistic Approach toward Growth

Ms. Lockett believes that a thriving student is one who lays a foundation for deep well-being in his or her life, for instance, "We're not just looking at academic success; we want to make sure they leave our campus with resilience, confidence, and curiosity beyond Cate." With that, Cate incorporates various programs that could help students academically, socially, and emotionally.

Central to Cate's philosophy is helping students develop a growth mindset. "Adolescence is a time of tremendous change, and at Cate, we want to encourage students to embrace challenges rather than shy away from them," Ms. Lockett said. This philosophy is woven into the curriculum, co-curricular activities, and advisory programs that guide students through their high school careers.

Institutional Priorities: What Matters Most

When pressed to identify Cate's key institutional priorities with respect to student development, Ms. Lockett identified three key areas of focus: academic rigor with support, emotional and mental health, and community engagement that fosters a sense of belonging.

1. Academic Rigor with Support

Cate boasts of a rigorous academic program, but it also offers students the necessary support and mentorship that guarantee they are capable of meeting those challenges. "We want to challenge the student intellectually while providing the necessary scaffolding to meet those challenges effectively," Ms. Lockett said. This is accomplished through small class sizes, approachable faculty, and formalized academic support programs.

She also provides opportunities for students to take ownership in the learning process. "Students should feel empowered to ask questions, seek help, and advocate for themselves," she stated. In teaching the students that it is a sign of strength to ask for help, not a weakness, Cate builds confidence within students to be independent in the processes of learning. 

2. Emotional and Mental Health

Recognizing the increasing stress that adolescents face today, Cate places a premium on mental and emotional well-being. "A student cannot succeed academically if they are struggling emotionally," Ms. Lockett states. Cate provides a full complement of mental health resources, from school counselors to peer support programs to wellness initiatives aimed at helping students manage stress and build resilience. 

Cate also brings wellness into everyday life via advisory meetings, mindfulness sessions, and outdoor education. "Being in nature and in movement are such important parts of mental health, so we want our students to be out in this beautiful environment which we call home," she said.

3. Community Engagement and a Sense of Belonging 

While strong identification is at the heart of the process of student development, Cate works conscientiously to build a safe and inclusive community. "We want every student to feel valued, seen, and heard," said Ms. Lockett. The school aims to promote DEI - diversity, equity, and inclusion - through proactive outreach, ensuring that every student feels represented and valued.

At the same time, the residential life at Cate helps considerably with community building. As Ms. Lockett reiterates, "Living on campus provides an unrivaled chance for the students to gain special friendships and bonding moments both from their co-students and even their mentors." Via residence, advisory, and student groups, the Cate student sharpens social skills as well as building camaraderie.

Looking Ahead: What Students Should Know

Returning to Ms. Lockett’s perspective, she believed many students struggled to understand Cate's approach to their development. She emphasized the importance of communication and self-advocacy. "We are here to help, but we also want you to take ownership of your time at Cate," she urged. She said she wants students to know they should ask for help—academically, socially, or emotionally.

She also emphasized the importance of balance, acknowledging that Cate’s structured schedule and busy days can sometimes feel limiting in terms of autonomy. "High school is not only about achievement, but it should be about growth, exploration, and joy." She urges students to commit to being fully engaged in both the academic and co-curricular aspects of school life, while simultaneously learning about and prioritizing wellness.

As Cate continues to evolve, Ms. Lockett is dedicated to leading the school's mission toward more profound commitments to developing the student community. "Our goal is to make sure that every Cate student graduates not only prepared for college but also prepared with the skills and mindset to live a fulfilling life," she concluded.