Students, families, and neighborhood notables gathered at Neighborhood House Charter School’s (NHCS) lower school on Sat., April 27, for their annual Fancy Hat Brunch – and to honor long-time executive director Kate Scott, who will be moving on to focus on family at the end of the academic year.

There have only been two leaders since the school was founded in 1995; Scott took over the role 12 years ago from founding Headmaster Kevin Andrews.

“This is an amazing community, and this is one of my favorite events, and it won’t be my last Fancy Hat Brunch,” said Scott.
Added Chief Operations Officer Rick Grant: “Nobody knows what Kate has gone through to keep this organization alive and viable.”

The event was also a celebration of community and enjoying one another as mothers, guardians, grandmothers, and others joined together looking their fanciest selves in the Pope’s Hill cafeteria. Special guests included NBC 10's Kwani Lunis and state Sen. Liz Miranda.

Workshops on self-care, jewelry making, and headband making were a hit, and they were followed by the annual fancy hat competition.

Seth Daniel photos

Executive Director Kate Scott and her daughter Lily greeted special guest state Sen. Liz Miranda.

Dorchester residents Jhasmine and Jocelyn Estillore had a wonderful time at the brunch.

Jackie Levine, Cara McCarthy, chief schools officer, and Janice Lewis, board of trustees.