“My ultimate goal is for every student to leave Middle School with a sense of fulfillment and belonging, knowing they have had an exceptional and transformative experience at Poly.”
A former music teacher, Performing Arts Department Chair, and Director of Music at Poly, Dan Doughty became Head of Middle School in 2023. During his tenure as a teacher and school leader, Dan has built programs, developed curriculum, supported faculty growth, and inspired students to become their best by embracing challenges and stepping outside of their comfort zones. A proven community builder, Dan received the 2022 Alumni Board of Governor’s Spirit Award, recognizing his contributions to the Poly community.
Before coming to Poly in 2006, Dan taught at a performing arts high school in Baltimore, MD, and worked in the music industry at both Elektra and Atlantic Records. Originally hailing from Iowa, Dan earned his Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from Westminster College, a Master of Arts degree in Music Education from Brooklyn College, and Certification in Kodály Methodology from New York University.
Dan is a member of the Klingenstein Center’s 2023-2025 Cohort at Teachers College, Columbia University, where he is working toward his M. Ed degree in Independent School Leadership.
Administration