Claudia McClure Daggett, 64

Aug 4, 2020

Former Head of Friends Academy Claudia McClure Daggett, 64, passed away peacefully at home in Cotuit, Massachusetts, on Wednesday, July 22, 2020 after a seven-month battle with glioblastoma. Bright, compassionate, full of life and laughter, very creative, and so very capable, Claudia will be missed and remembered fondly by many.

Claudia grew up in Racine, Wisconsin, and graduated from the University of Wisconsin at twenty. She began her 40-year career in education teaching fourth grade at Prairie School in Racine while earning an MA in Education from National Louis University. From there she taught at Garrison Forest School in Maryland, and then at Tenacre Country Day School in Wellesley, Massachusetts, where she served as Assistant Head of School.

She then joined Cape Cod Academy where she served as Head of Lower School, and in 1995 she was appointed Head of School at Friends Academy in Dartmouth, where she served for 11 years. After her tenure at Friends, she engaged in both executive search and association work.

In 2014 she was appointed Executive Director of ISACS (Independent School Association of the Central States) where she served for nearly six years until her diagnosis.  She thrived on working with both individuals and institutions, improving the educational experience for children and the adults who work with them. 

Devoted to family and the growth and development of independent schools, Claudia was well known nationally as an educator of significant accomplishment and contribution. Claudia was an avid reader with equal interest in fiction and non-fiction, especially educational literature. She enjoyed Scrabble and Words with Friends, jigsaw puzzles, and gardening at her home in Cotuit. She also was an active photographer and maker of mosaics, both significant expressions of her creativity. Claudia enjoyed Facebook and Twitter, making connections with friends and colleagues across the country. Summer afternoons spent on Loop Beach in Cotuit or kayaking in Shoestring Bay brought her joy, as well.

Claudia is survived by her husband Clark, her son Matthew McClure, and her nephew Keegan Beckwith and his family. Those who knew her are deeply saddened by her passing and truly grateful for the opportunity to know her, spend time with her, laugh with her, share a meal with her, enjoy her wit, and receive her love, generosity, kindness, and compassion. 

A virtual memorial service to celebrate Claudia’s life will take place later in August or in September and will be announced for all who are interested. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Claudia’s honor and memory to Friends Academy, 1088 Tucker Road, North Dartmouth, MA, 02747 in support of the Claudia Daggett Distinguished Service Award presented each year at the school’s Class Day.