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. I look forward to the feedback from our community on the qualities that are important to the role and the candidate pool.
Updates
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.
View the position description and 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.
Interim Leadership
In the interim year, two current faculty members are being elevated to leadership roles. Pamela Applegate will serve as Interim Co-Principal (Dean of Students), and Michelle Hayden will serve as Interim Co-Principal (Dean of Faculty). They both have been praised for their years of experience and dedication to students and families of SMA, making them ideal candidates to lead during this transition.
Pamela Applegate, current Assistant Principal and social studies teacher, has 17 years of experience in education. In her role as Interim Co-Principal (Dean of Students), she will be responsible for managing student affairs and supporting students. She'll continue to oversee attendance, discipline, student life, and leadership.
Michelle Hayden, current Mathematics Department chair and teacher, has 31 years of experience in education. In her role as Interim Co-Principal (Dean of Faculty), she will be responsible for supporting faculty needs and overseeing academic initiatives. Additionally, she will stay on as a college counselor and continue to teach AP Calculus.
Phil Gentry, the current Dean of Academic Affairs and Director of College Counseling, will support Pamela and Michelle. He brings a wealth of expertise and institutional wisdom, and we are so thankful for his dedication to SMA for over 26 years.