Catlin Gabel Leadership Stories

In this school leaders series, the collective vision for positive, lasting change provides a window into the future of Catlin Gabel.

A shared commitment to students and the school community is a unifying factor among all school leaders, with each bringing their own priorities and perspectives. Through their efforts, they’re giving voice to many at the school today, and shaping the experience for many more who will make up the school community in the years to come.

Derek Kanarek: Independent Curriculum as a Foundation for Academic Excellence

Interim Head of Upper School Derek Kanarek on choosing teacher-designed, student-driven curriculum over standardized AP and IB content.

group portrait of shannon rush, Derek Kanarek, and john harnetiaux with dant house and foliage in the background

Leading with Clarity and Purpose

The 2024-25 Upper School Interim Leadership Team brings vast experience, and a collective vision forged from years of working together in support of Catlin Gabel students and faculty.

portrait of head of middle school michele roberts seated on wooden bench in front of vollum humanities on catlin gabel campus large tree truck and stone wall in background

Michele Roberts: Removing Barriers and Creating Opportunities

Head of Middle School Michele Roberts on the importance of providing students with a safe space to explore their interests and define themselves.

varsity girls soccer team huddle prior to homecoming game

An Inclusive Athletics Program Where Every Student Feels Welcome

Catlin Gabel Athletics fosters openness and opportunity, and uses the lens of sport to promote life lessons.

Speak Up with Humility and Patience

Head of School Tim Bazemore’s Graduation Address to the Class of 2024

Sustaining Students’ Curiosity about the World

The Head of School reflects on the spirit of inquiry in education, and why teachers’ modeling, asking, and eliciting questions leads to understanding and growth

John Harnetiaux: Prioritizing the Building, Maintenance, and Reparation of Relationships

Upper School Dean of Students John Harnetiaux reflects on restorative justice practice at Catlin Gabel, and how this approach fosters relational currency between students and adults.

smiling modern language teacher seated and teaching small group of smiling middle school students

A Whole Child Model Designed with Intention

Head of School Tim Bazemore shares thoughts on the school's integrated education model, and how it reflects our belief that relationships and values inform all learning.

Portrait of Mark Holliday Board of Trustees Chair, wearing light blue shirt and dark blue blazer in Creative Arts Center

Mark Holliday: Creating Possibilities for the Future

An interview with Mark Holliday, Chair of the Board of Trustees.

Assistant Head of Middle School, Beth Vallarino with students cheering in front of Warren Middle School

Beth Vallarino: Providing a Space Where Students Feel Heard and Valued

The Assistant Head of Middle School shares her thoughts on how a sense of safety and belonging can help adolescents lean into growth and the unknown.

Kama Bruce: Building Community by Being in Fellowship

The Assistant Head of School shares thoughts on the intentional work of strengthening relationships, and the importance of creating “the spaces in between.”

Sharon Keiser: Working Together Towards a Common Purpose and Shared Goals

An interview with Sharon Keiser, Catlin Gabel's Chief Finance and Operations Officer.

group portrait from left to right Genevieve Bouwes, Assistant Head for Teaching and Learning. Tracy Gray Assistant Head for Student and Family Support, Nick Zosel-Johnson as the new Head of Beginning and Lower School,

Nick Zosel-Johnson, Tracy Gray, and Genevieve Bouwes: Guiding Students to Take Their Own Path

The Beginning and Lower School leadership team on recognizing and appreciating the stages of development, and supporting student success.

Connie Kim-Gervey: Growing Together in Community

Catlin Gabel’s Director of Equity and Inclusion shares impressions of the institution today and a vision for the future.

head of school tim bazemore holding microphone for lower school student to speak into during fall 2022 all school assembly

Tim Bazemore: Can Curiosity be Taught?

The Head of School reflects on the importance of guiding students to lead conversations with questions and become "curious explorers"