Mapping Our Journey: A Strategic Vision for Tabor

Founded in the optimistic era of 1876, Tabor Academy emerged as a beacon of progress and potential. The institution that soon came to be known as the School by the Sea was founded by Mrs. Elizabeth Taber, a visionary who, after enduring personal tragedies, devoted her life to the betterment of her hometown of Marion, Massachusetts. Founded 100 years after the birth of our country, Tabor’s journey is intertwined with innovations in American history, from the invention of the telephone and the dawn of electric light , to the civil rights movement, to the introduction of biometric technology, cloud computing, and AI.

It is my will and desire that … the character of the school itself shall also be gradually elevated and its scope enlarged, till … it shall afford facilities for the acquisition of a liberal education to the youth of all portions of the country.Elizabeth Taber

Mrs. Taber’s spirit of resilience and innovation continued under the guidance of Headmaster Walter Lillard in 1916. Faced with financial challenges, Lillard’s bold decision to relocate Tabor Academy to the seaside not only saved it from closure but also redefined its identity and mission. His foresight distinguished Tabor as an institution with global perspective and a unique connection to the sea, laying the groundwork for the international community it fosters today.

As Tabor Academy stands at the threshold of its 150th anniversary, this new strategic plan, “Mapping Our Journey,” reflects its storied past and a commitment to a future of continued excellence and global influence. The plan, while ambitious in its vision, is guided by four key priorities that speak to the heart of Tabor’s legacy: student learning and empowerment, global education, holistic wellbeing, and sustainable growth.

These priorities reflect the school’s historical foundation in resilience, innovation, and global engagement; and capitalize on Tabor’s proximity to the sea, with a focus on place-based learning. Each strategic priority demonstrates Tabor’s commitment to an education that is both rooted in tradition and forward-thinking, leading Tabor into a bold and bright future.

Head of School Tony Jaccaci highlights the significance of this strategic vision saying, “At the plan’s core, our guiding statements draw inspiration from the school’s long and storied history; our mission will guide us to empower students to connect, serve, and lead, much like thousands of Tabor students have done for generations.”

Jaccaci’s sentiments are echoed by Regina Shakin, Board Chair and a parent of Tabor graduates. She shares her personal experience with the school noting, “I have come to love this special school and community. I have witnessed myself the strength of the student experience here and how Tabor changes lives.” Shakin expresses her enthusiasm for the plan: “As we prepare for the future, the board of trustees and I are excited about the direction of our school’s growth and the promise of the strategic plan.”

“Mapping Our Journey: A Strategic Vision for Tabor” is more than a plan; it’s a commitment to preparing students well to handle the challenges of an uncertain future with competence and confidence.

To read the plan in its entirety, explore our strategic priorities, and find ongoing updates on the achievements of our strategic planning as they emerge, view our Strategic Vision online.