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High School Principal National Search

St. Mary's Academy is committed to finding the best candidate to serve as our next High School Principal, and we have initiated the process to identify the person who would be the best fit to lead our esteemed High School. We are taking a thoughtful and intentional approach to our search, involving all our constituents - students, families, faculty, staff, and board of trustees - in the decision-making process. 

Updates

December, 2023
The finalist interview stage is happening on campus during the first and second week of December. All stakeholders are invited to meet with the candidates, and have received emails on those next steps. 

September - November, 2023
The search committee has dedicated itself to evaluating the candidates, narrowing the pool to six semifinalists. Interviews will take place early November.

June - September, 2023
Carney Sandoe & Associates, our executive search consultant, has recruited candidates and provided the search committee with a robust pool for careful consideration. 

May 15, 2023
The search process has officially began seeking candidates. You can use the button below to view the details of the position and find out how to apply.

May 1, 2023
The input and insights of our community is valuable. To ensure all voices are heard, we opened a survey to help the search firm better understand what qualities and skills our community believes are important for the next High School principal to possess. This survey is now closed.

Search Firm

We have partnered with Carney Sandoe & Associates, an established school-leadership search firm with a proven track record of placing top-tier leaders in educational institutions. With decades of experience in our industry, a deep understanding of the challenges schools face when recruiting top talent, and a comprehensive network of contacts, they are well-equipped to help us find the best candidate for the position. We are fortunate to partner with them, as their consultants have extensive experience working in all-girls Catholic education settings. 

Internal Search Committee

A diverse and highly qualified team will serve on the internal search committee. Their broad range of skills, experience, and perspectives makes them uniquely positioned to lead the search process. The committee's composition is thoughtful and comprehensive, including faculty members well-versed in SMA and the High School culture, and administrative team members who offer insights on how potential applicants can fit into our organizational framework and provide strategic expertise. Thank you to those serving:

  • Dr. Andy Aldrich, Middle School Principal
  • Andrew Beckham, Visual Arts Department Chair 
  • Lyndal Brookhart, Director of Human Resources
  • Yun Chen, World Languages Department Chair 
  • Regina Drey SL, Sister of Loretto and Director of Loretto Projects
  • Phil Gentry, Dean of Academic Affairs and Director of College Counseling
  • Julie May ’84, High School Counselor and Wellness Coordinator
  • Seely Meredith, Director of Admissions
  • Kelly Shipley, Science Department Chair and Head Coach of Varsity Swimming
  • Karen Smith, Lower School Principal

Timeline

Carney Sandoe & Associates has recommended a timeline that begins this spring, with the search completed by January 2024. The successful candidate will start their new role as principal on July 1, 2024. This timeline ensures the process is given the necessary time and attention to attract the most qualified and dedicated candidates.