Letter from the Executive Director

Dear York Day Early Learning Community,

After much reflection, I am writing to share that I have accepted a new professional opportunity and will be stepping down as Executive Director of York Day Early Learning. My final day with the organization will be October 23, 2026.

While I am excited for this next chapter, this decision comes with many emotions. York Day has been much more than a place of employment for me. It has been an opportunity to work alongside extraordinary people, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to an organization that has been making a difference in the lives of York County's children and families for almost 95 years.

I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together. From expanding our programming to include Twilight Care, summer camp, and school-age childcare, to strengthening community partnerships, investing in our learning environments, and finding innovative ways to meet the evolving needs of working families, York Day continues to demonstrate what is possible when a community comes together around a shared mission.

None of these accomplishments would have been possible without our dedicated educators and staff, our engaged Board of Directors, our generous community partners and supporters, and the families who place their trust in us each day. I am deeply grateful to each of you.

As York Day prepares for this transition, I am pleased to share that Kiersten Tawney has been selected to serve as Interim Executive Director while our talented and committed Board of Directors begins the search for the organization's next permanent leader.

Kiersten brings a strong understanding of York Day, a commitment to our children and families, and a genuine passion for early childhood education. The Board of Directors and I are confident in her ability to provide steady leadership during this important period. Together with our dedicated staff and Board of Directors, she will help ensure that York Day continues to provide the high-quality care and education our community has come to expect.

For me, this next professional chapter will allow me to continue the work central to my career: improving outcomes for children and families. I am excited to join Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning; an organization committed to expanding access to high-quality early childhood education and comprehensive family supports across Pennsylvania. This opportunity will allow me to continue advocating for children and families while growing as a leader in early childhood education across the Commonwealth.

Although my role is changing, my commitment to York Day and to the broader early childhood education community are not. I will remain an advocate for this organization, its mission, and the children and families it serves.

As I prepare to depart, I do so with tremendous gratitude, pride, and optimism. York Day's greatest strength has never been any one individual. It is the collective commitment of the people who believe that every child deserves a great beginning and a bright future.

Thank you for allowing me to be part of York Day's story. It has truly been an honor, and I look forward to celebrating the organization's continued success in the years ahead.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Sara Bradley
Executive Director
York Day Early Learning