TAISMentors
A TAIS Signature Program LinkingLeaders,CultivatingCommunity
Alissa Abercrombie
HeadofLowerandUpperSchool
ChristMethodistDaySchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
LeadershipTransitions(newheadship,succession planning,interimleadership),Professional Development&FacultyCoaching,Curriculum
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership (curriculum,instructionaldesign,accreditation), DepartmentChair,CurriculumMapping,Lesson PlanningandUnitDesign,EarlyChildhood,Lower School,AcademicSupportandAccommodations
LearningManagementSystems
CrisisManagement&SchoolSafety
Diversity,Equity,Inclusion,andBelonging,Parent Partnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices,FaithBased/Values-BasedSchoolLeadership
HouseSystems
CareerSnapshot
Itaughtavarietyofgradelevels(PK-4th) beforemovingintoadministration.Ihave workedaprivate,Christian,co-edindependent schoolforover15years.Ihaveheldmanyroles -fromclassroomteachertocurriculum coordinatortodirector.Now,IamtheHeadof LowerandUpperSchoolandworkwith students,teachersandfamiliesinSK-6th grade.
MentoringPhilosophy
Havinganhonestandopenrelationshipiskey. Inordertogrow,youhavetobevulnerableto constructivecriticism,askquestionsandlisten tooneanother.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Ilovetoread,attendBarreclassesandspend timewithmyfamily.Ihavethecutestdogand IamthebiggestTennesseefanyou'llever meet.
Andrea Ballard
LowerSchoolCampusDirector
St.George'sIndependentSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
LeadershipTransitions(newheadship,succession planning,interimleadership),ProfessionalDevelopment &FacultyCoaching,NewSchoolInitiativesorStartups, CrisisManagement&SchoolSafety
AcademicLeadership(curriculum,instructionaldesign, accreditation),TechnologyIntegration&Innovation, EarlyChildhood,LowerSchool,AcademicSupportand Accommodations
EnrollmentManagement,Communications,Learning ManagementSystems,Scheduling
Diversity,Equity,Inclusion,andBelonging,Parent Partnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices,Faith-Based/Values-Based SchoolLeadership at work at play
CareerSnapshot
Inmy32ndyearinindependentschools,Iam currentlyservingasaCampusDirectorforPK-5th gradeandhaveexperienceasaDirectorof AcademicStudies,DirectorofProfessionalGrowth andDevelopment(facultyandstaff)andinthe areaofAdmission.Ihaveworkedwithdiverse populations(racially,economically, geographically,culturallyandreligiously)andhave coachingexperienceinmiddleschool.My colleagueswouldsaythatIhavestrongleadership abilities,ammissionandstudentcentered,aswell asstrengthasacoach.
MentoringPhilosophy
Ibelieveamentor/menteerelationshipshouldbe relationalandgroundedintrust.Supportshouldbe providedalongsidegentlenudgestowardpotential growth.Ivaluetrust,honesty,confidentiality(if needed),andtransparencywiththegoalof becomingabetterversionofourselves.Keep communicationopenandweaveinpurposeand joy!
FunFactorPersonalNote
ObviouslyIlovekidsandcoaching(stillcoach middleschool).Istillenjoyswimming,biking,hiking andmostthingsoutdoors.Lately,Iamanavid booklistenersoaudibleandIspendsomequality timetogether.
Brenda Berry
DirectorofAdvancement
Grace-St.Luke'sEpiscopalSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance,Leadership Transitions(newheadship,successionplanning,interim leadership)
Fundraising&Advancement,Marketing,Communications,Legal &ComplianceIssues
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement
CrisisManagement&SchoolSafety
CareerSnapshot
IamcurrentlytheDirectorofAdvancementat Grace-St.Luke'sEpiscopalSchool.Thisismy tenthyearatGSLandmy15thyearwith independentschools.Myareasofexpertise includefundraising,includinghowtoincrease participation;writingandediting;and interpersonalcommunications.
MentoringPhilosophy
Myapproachtomentorshipisaboutlistening first,sharinghonestly,andhelpingeachother grow.Ibelievementorshipisatwo-way exchangewherebothpeoplelearnfromeach other’sexperiencesandperspectives.
WhatIvaluemostinamentor/mentee relationshipistrust,openness,andhonest feedback.Iappreciateclearcommunication,a sharedcommitmenttogoals,andthe willingnesstochallengeeachotherina supportiveway.
FunFactorPersonalNote
IhaveapetballpythonnamedCookieDough! Mymostcherishedhobbyissendinggreeting cardstothoseallovertheworldwhoare havingadifficulttimeinlife;Itypicallysend 30-50cardsouteachmonth!
Heather Caponi
AssociateHeadofSchool
Ensworth
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,ProfessionalDevelopment&Faculty Coaching,NewSchoolInitiativesorStartups
AcademicLeadership(curriculum,instructionaldesign, accreditation),LowerSchool,AcademicSupportand Accommodations
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement
LeadingThroughChange
CareerSnapshot
at work at play
MentoringPhilosophy
HeatherCaponihasbeenteachingandleading intheindependentschoolcommunityfor30 years.HeatheriscurrentlytheAssociateHead ofSchoolatTheEnsworthSchoolinNashville, TN.Shehascollaboratedtocreatestudent supportservicesandteacherprofessional developmentprogramsthatalignwiththe missionandvisionofherschool.Sheis passionateaboutunderstandingand supportingteachersastheynavigatechange intheirprofession.
Mymentorshipphilosophycentersonbuilding authenticrelationshipsandfosteringreflective practiceasthefoundationforgrowth.Bycocreatingaspacethatvaluesconnection, inquiry,andvulnerability,Ibelievementorship canbecomeatransformativeexperience—for boththementorandthementee.
FunFactorPersonalNote
IrideHarleyDavidsonmotorcycles,loveice hockey,andenjoyspendingtimehiking.
Mentors
HeadofSchool McKenzie Cohen
TheCollegiateSchoolofMemphis
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
BoardRelations&Governance,ProfessionalDevelopment& FacultyCoaching,NewSchoolInitiativesorStartups,Supporting adiversestaffandcultivatingrelationships
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership(curriculum, instructionaldesign,accreditation),LessonPlanningandUnit Design,MiddleSchool,UpperSchool,AcademicSupportand Accommodations
Diversity,Equity,Inclusion,andBelonging,Parent Partnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices,Faith-Based/Values-Based SchoolLeadership
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership
CareerSnapshot
Thisismy12thyearastheHeadofSchoolat TheCollegiateSchoolofMemphis. Iama BoardMemberfortheSouthernAssociationof IndependentSchoolsandthecurrentPresident oftheMemphisAssociationofIndependent Schools. PriortomyleadershippositionIhave anacademiccoachandaclassroomteacher.
MentoringPhilosophy
Ihaveappreciatedmentorsinmylifewhoare humbleandhonestabouttheirexperiences andtrytoreturnthishumilityandhonestyto mymentees.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Iammarriedwith7yearoldtwins. Ienjoy exerciseandtheoutdoors.
HeadofSchool Sean Corcoran
BrainerdBaptistSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance, ProfessionalDevelopment&FacultyCoaching
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership(curriculum, instructionaldesign,accreditation),LowerSchool, MiddleSchool
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,Fundraising&Advancement, EnrollmentManagement,Marketing,Communications
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,FaithBased/Values-BasedSchoolLeadership
CrisisManagement&SchoolSafety
CareerSnapshot
at work at play
MentoringPhilosophy
Myfavoritepartofmentorshipislearningfrom others.Ilovetobounceideas/problemsandvalue theconversationthatcomesfromthat.Ienjoy schoolgovernance(Iknow,thatsoundsnerdy) andbelieveitscrucialtothesuccessofaschool (andahead).
FunFactorPersonalNote
IvebeenheadofBrainerdBaptistSchoolfor20 years.Priortothat,IservedasAssistantHeadat anotherindependentSchooloverseeingfacilities, business,admissions&development.
I'membarrassedtoadmittheamountoftimeI spendfollowing/watching/attendingathletic eventsattheUniversityofTennessee.Ialsoaman avidskier,poorgolfer,andproficientpickleballer!
Elizabeth Ecker
DirectorofMiddleSchool
TheHarpethHallSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,ProfessionalDevelopment&Faculty Coaching,NewSchoolInitiativesorStartups,Attractingand RetainingFaculty
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership(curriculum, instructionaldesign,accreditation),MiddleSchool,Academic SupportandAccommodations,FacultyCoaching
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices
CrisisManagement&SchoolSafety
CareerSnapshot
AfterteachingmiddleandhighschoolFrenchand historyforabouttenyears,Imadethetransitionto full-timeadministrativeroles,servingfortwoyears asanassistantheadofmiddleschoolandthenas divisionhead/directorintwodifferent independentschools. Overmytwodecadesin education,Ihaveworkedinbothall-girlsandcoedenvironments,primarilyinindependentschools, andhaveservedinteacherleaderrolessuchas gradeleveldeananddepartmentchair. I'm currentlyinmysecondyearasdivisiondirectorat myownalmamater,TheHarpethHallSchoolin Nashville.
at work
MentoringPhilosophy
Havingbenefitedtremendouslyfromstrong mentorsinindependentschools,Itrulyrecognize thevalueofacolleaguewhoiswillingtoinvest time,energy,andcareintomeasaprofessional andasaperson. Notwojourneysinteachingand schoolleadershiparethesame,sowhenIfind myselfinamentorrole,it'simportanttometoask alotofquestionsandgainatrueunderstandingof thecolleague'spassions,motivations,and aspirations.WhilemymentorsandmenteesandI haveendedupindifferentcities,states,oreven countriesattimes,itisalwaysreassuringtohave thattrustedpersontoprovideanobjective perspectiveoroffertheirownwisdomfroma similarexperience.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Thissummer,myfamilyembarkedonajourneyto findthebestsoftserveicecreamintheNashville area. Wereferredtoitasour"Cone-quest,"and we 'vesampledandrankedsoftservefrommore thantendifferentlocations(andcounting). It's beenafunandtastyfamilychallenge!
Kelly Fish
AssistantHeadofSchoolforAdvancement&
StrategicInitiatives
CurreyIngramAcademy
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,LeadershipTransitions(newheadship, successionplanning,interimleadership),Professional Development&FacultyCoaching
EnrollmentManagement,Marketing,Communications,Legal& ComplianceIssues
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership,ResidentialLife/ BoardingPrograms,CrisisManagement&SchoolSafety
CareerSnapshot
WithabackgroundinathleticsandUniversity Advancement,IcametoCurreyIngramin2011. I worked11yearsastheDirectorofAthleticswhereI servedstudent-athletesandcoachesinan educational-basedathleticmodel.Aftertakingon severalotherrolesinadditiontomyAthletics positionattheschool,ImadethemovetoAssistant HeadofSchoolforAdvancementandStrategic Initiativesin2022.Iworkwithnon-academic programsoftheschool,managemostofour internaloperations,andleadourAdvancement team.Ialsoleadourschool'sAccreditation.
MentoringPhilosophy
Iviewmentorshipascoaching,frommy backgroundinathletics.I’vebeenfortunatetohave mentorsandcoacheswhobelievedinme, challengedme,andhelpedshapemyprofessional (andpersonal)journey.Theirinvestmenttaught methepoweroflistening,honestfeedback,and leadingothersthroughseasonsofgrowth.Asan AssistantHeadofSchool,Iseementorshipasaway topaythatforward—bybeingpresent,asking thoughtfulquestions,andencouragingothersto leadwithclarityandconfidence.Ibelieve mentorshipisn’tabouthavingalltheanswers,but abouthelpingothersdiscovertheirown.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Ilovewatchingsports,allthingsDisney,andcan finishawordsearchinrecordtime!
Julie Fortune
DirectorofAdmissionsandEnrollmentMang.
HardingAcadmey
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance,New SchoolInitiativesorStartups
ClassroomTeaching,DepartmentChair,EarlyChildhood, LowerSchool,MiddleSchool,UpperSchool
EnrollmentManagement,Communications
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,FaithBased/Values-BasedSchoolLeadership
Ihaveworkedwithboardstosetthebudgetin partnershipwithadmissionsandenrollment
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership,Crisis Management&SchoolSafety at work at play
CareerSnapshot
Ihaveworkedineducationforalmosttwo decades.Ihavetaughtinthegeneral populationandwastheChairoftheSPED departmentinaTitle1schoolinMemphis.I havealsohaveexperienceinoperationsand auxiliaryprograming.Ihaveextensive experienceinAdmissionsandEnrollment Managementinbothsecularschoolsand JewishDaySchools.
MentoringPhilosophy
Ivaluehonestyandthewillingnessto authenticallyselfreflectonbothsides.A menteemustbehonestandopenabouthow theywanttogrowandwhytheywanttogrow; whilea mentormustequallybewillingtolisten openlyandwithoutjudgmenttosupportthe trueneedsofhermenteeaswellasbehonest withfeedbackandsupport.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Ilovetomove(whetheritbehiking,soccer, running,oratripdowntheriver).
Jess Hill
HeadofSchool
HarpethHall
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
BoardRelations&Governance,LeadershipTransitions (newheadship,successionplanning,interim leadership),ProfessionalDevelopment&Faculty Coaching
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership (curriculum,instructionaldesign,accreditation),Upper School
Fundraising&Advancement,Communications
Diversity,Equity,Inclusion,andBelonging,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices,InternationalorGlobal Programs
CareerSnapshot
MypathisanunusualonebecauseIhavehad almostmyentirecareeratthesameschool, HarpethHall.Itaughtattwoschoolspriorto comingtoHarpethHallandhavebeenhereas ateacher,upperschooldirectorandheadof schoolfor30years.Thisismy8thyearashead ofschool.
MentoringPhilosophy
Iappreciateconnectingwithothereducators andencouragingthemontheirjourney.Itis nevereasytostepintoaleadershipposition anditalwayshelpstohavepeoplewho understandthat.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Ilovespendingtimewithmyfriendsand family.Ienjoycookingandfeedingthemoften.
Tom Hood
President(HeadofSchool)
St.AgnesAcademy-St.DominicSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance, ProfessionalDevelopment&FacultyCoaching
AcademicLeadership(curriculum,instructionaldesign, accreditation),TechnologyIntegration&Innovation,Early Childhood,LowerSchool,MiddleSchool,UpperSchool
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,Fundraising&Advancement, EnrollmentManagement,Communications,Legal& ComplianceIssues
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices,Faith-Based/Values-Based SchoolLeadership
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership,Crisis Management&SchoolSafety at work at play
CareerSnapshot
Afterretiringfroma26-yearArmycareer,I transitionedintoindependentschooleducation. Myfirstschoolwasa6-12daysecularschoolin northeastPennsylvaniawhereIservedasAssistant HeadofSchoolfortwoyearsandasHeadof Schoolforeightyears. ImovedtoSt.Agnes Academy-St.DominicSchoolinMemphisin2016. IthoroughlyenjoybeinginaCatholicschooland sharingmyfaithjourneywithoureducators, students,andtheirfamilies.
MentoringPhilosophy
Mentoringisnotaone-waystreet. Ienjoylearning fromothersandIamconfidentIwilllearnasmuch asIsharefromourinteractions. Itisoftendifficult tofindsomeonetobounceideasoffinyourown community.Ourrelationshipwillallowbothofusto shareissuesthatwemightbeuncomfortable askingsomeonewhoknowsourschool.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Ienjoywoodworking. Igettousemyhandsand mymindtosolveproblems. Itispeaceful. Ialso enjoytravelingbothnationallyandinternationally. Itisfuntolearnaboutotherculturesandaffirming toseehowmuchwehaveincommon.
Scotty Jones
MiddleSchoolHead
McCallieSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
BoardRelations&Governance,LeadershipTransitions (newheadship,successionplanning,interimleadership), ProfessionalDevelopment&FacultyCoaching
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership(curriculum, instructionaldesign,accreditation),DepartmentChair, CurriculumMapping,TechnologyIntegration&Innovation, LowerSchool,MiddleSchool,UpperSchool,Academic SupportandAccommodations
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,EnrollmentManagement, Communications
Diversity,Equity,Inclusion,andBelonging,Parent Partnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices,Faith-Based/Values-Based SchoolLeadership
at work atplay
CareerSnapshot
Ihavebeenineducationfornearly35years(14 publicschool,21independent).Ihaveservedin rolesofDept.Chair,Dean,andcurrentlytheMiddle SchoolHeadatMcCallie.
MentoringPhilosophy
Iamhappytohelpguide,supportandoffera perspectivefrommyownexperience.Sometimes peoplejustneedasoundingboardtosharetheir ideas,concerns,hopesandfears.
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership,ResidentialLife/ BoardingPrograms,CrisisManagement&SchoolSafety
FunFactorPersonalNote
IamthemusicconductoroftheMidSouth SymphonicBand.A90piececommunitybandin theChattanoogaarea.
James Jordan
HeadofSchool
EpiscopalSchoolofNashville
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance, LeadershipTransitions(newheadship,succession planning,interimleadership),NewSchoolInitiatives orStartups
AcademicLeadership(curriculum,instructional design,accreditation),DepartmentChair,Early Childhood,LowerSchool,MiddleSchool
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,Fundraising& Advancement,EnrollmentManagement,Marketing, Communications
CareerSnapshot
Ihavespentthelast21yearsinindependent schoolsacrossfourstates,servingasa teacher,coach,assistantprincipal,principal, associateheadofschool,andheadofschool.I amcurrentlyinmyfifthyearasHeadofSchool atEpiscopalSchoolofNashville.Myareasof interestandexperienceincludegovernance, facultydevelopment,fundraising, communications,leadershipculture,andAIin education.
MentoringPhilosophy
Ihavehadthebenefitofgreatmentors throughoutmycareer,andIwanttomake myselfavailabletohelpotherstakethenext stepintheirleadershipjourneyorfeel supportedintheircurrentrole.Ivalueopen, relaxedcommunicationandseementorshipas awaytobeofservice.
FunFactorPersonalNote
IwasbornandraisedinEngland.Ilovesoccer!
Will Kesler
HeadofSchool
BattleGroundAcademy
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance,New SchoolInitiativesorStartups,LeadershipDevelopment
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership(curriculum, instructionaldesign,accreditation),DepartmentChair, CurriculumMapping,MiddleSchool,UpperSchool SchoolFinance&Budgeting,Fundraising&Advancement, EnrollmentManagement,Communications,Legal& ComplianceIssues
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices,Faith-Based/Values-Based SchoolLeadership AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership
CareerSnapshot
at work at play
MentoringPhilosophy
Iliketotalkthroughquestionsandproblemsand processverbally,butmygoalistomovetowards systemsthinkingthathelpstoautomatesomeof thedecision-makingprocessandallowsusto elevateourthinkingaswemoveforward.
Ihavebeenworkinginindependentschoolssince 1997-firstasaEnglishteacherandsoccercoach, thenasdepartmentchairwithothervariousroles. I tookapositionasadivisionheadoverbotha middleandupperschool,andthenbecamea headofschoolin2014atBattleGroundAcademy, whereIhaveservedeversince.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Ilovetocook,especiallyBBQ,andIenjoythequiet andsolitudeofhuntingduringtheFallandWinter. IliketothinkthatIaminaprettysmallvenn diagramofpeoplewhocanfielddressadeerand haveread(andenjoyed)TheBrothersKaramazov.
RENEE’ KROPFF
AssistantHeadofSchool,OperationsandTechnology, GradesJPK-5th, TheBrightSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
Classroomteacher,SpecialAreasteacher, LeadershipTeam
Facultycultureandteamdynamics
TechnologyIntegration
Leadingthroughstrategicchange
CapitalImprovementsandFacilitiesPlanning
SAISAccreditationTeamandChair
CareerSnapshot
Renee’hasservedinindependent schoolsfor26years,holdingavarietyof rolesincludingclassroomteacher, directoroftechnology,andassistant headofschool.Whileshehaswornmany hatsduringhertimeatTheBrightSchool, herenthusiasmandloveforthework remainasstrongastheywereonher veryfirstday.Sheapproachesevery aspectofherrolewithacollaborative spiritandapeople-firstmindset.
at work at play
MentoringPhilosophy
Myapproachtomentoringisrootedintrust, collaboration,andcontinuousgrowth.Ibelievein creatingasupportiveenvironmentwherefacultyand stafffeelvalued,heard,andempoweredtotakerisks andrefinetheirpractice.Byfosteringreflective conversationsandprovidingconsistent encouragementandfeedback,Iaimtohelpeach educatorgrowprofessionallywhilestayinggrounded inoursharedmissiontoservestudentswithcare, intention,andpurpose.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Whenshe’snotbusykeepingthingshummingatBright School,you’lllikelyfindReneeonthepickleballcourt paddleinhandandgamefaceon!Shelovesplaying withherhusbandandson,wherefriendlyfamilyrivalries andlotsoflaughterarealwaysguaranteed.It’sher favoritewaytounwindandkeepthecompetitivespirit alive!
Mentors
Teena H. Maginn
AssociateHeadofSchool
ChristMethodistDaySchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance,Leadership Transitions(newheadship,successionplanning,interim leadership),NewSchoolInitiativesorStartups
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership(curriculum, instructionaldesign,accreditation),LessonPlanningandUnit Design,EarlyChildhood,LowerSchool,AcademicSupportand Accommodations,Hiring,FacultyMentorship
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,EnrollmentManagement, Communications,Legal&ComplianceIssues
Diversity,Equity,Inclusion,andBelonging,StudentWellbeing& SupportServices,Faith-Based/Values-BasedSchoolLeadership
CrisisManagement&SchoolSafety,FacilitiesManagement, Day-to-DayOperations,ChurchandSchoolRelations at work at play
CareerSnapshot
Iamanalmost40yearveteranineducation. I haveapublicandprivateschoolbackground. The last17yearshavebeeninafaithbasedprivate schoolasanEarlyChildhoodDirector,InterimHead, andcurrently,AssociateHeadofSchool. Ihavea diversebackgroundfrombudgetingand compliancestoday-to-dayoperationsand orientatingnewteachers. TheAssociateHead remainsapositionofbeingflexibleandcontinued growthinallareasofschoolsustainabiltly.
MentoringPhilosophy
Mymentoringphilosophyisgroundedintrust, collaboration,andresponsivesupport. Building strongrelationshipsfosterstheconfidencetohave opendialogueswithoutcriticism. Thisenablesthe capabilityofreflection,brainstorming,and practicalstrategies. Itailormyapproachtoeach mentee'sexperienceandgoals,Myaimisto empowerotherstogrowwithpurposewhilealways aligningtheworkwiththebroadermissionand valuesoftheschool.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Ilikeagoodcrosswordpuzzle,butImustfinishitto completion. Iwasasynchronizedswimmerin college,oneofthehardestsportsIplayed. Istill lovetheclassroomandeverythingit encompasses. Thecareerineducationhasbeen spotonforme. Fromcarpooltocarpool,Ienjoy everyminuteintheday.
Mentors
HeadofSchool Robert McGehee
St.NicholasSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance, LeadershipTransitions(newheadship,succession planning,interimleadership),ProfessionalDevelopment& FacultyCoaching
ClassroomTeaching,DepartmentChair,LessonPlanning andUnitDesign,LowerSchool,MiddleSchool,Academic SupportandAccommodations
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,EnrollmentManagement, Marketing
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices,Faith-Based/Values-Based SchoolLeadership
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership,Crisis Management&SchoolSafety
CareerSnapshot
IamcurrentlyHeadofSchoolatSt.Nicholas SchoolinChattanooga.Previously,Iservedas AssociateHeadofSchoolatHighlandsSchool InBirmingham,Al.PriorthatItaught4thgrade, middleschool,wasUpperSchoolDirectorand DeanofStudentsatSt.Paul'sSchoolinMobile, Al.
MentoringPhilosophy
Ibelieveinmeetingwithindividualsand discussingtheirareasofstrengthand opportunitiesforgrowth.Iprefertocollaborate withthatindividualonsettinggoalsand establishingbenchmarksforgrowth,both short-termandlong-term.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Iusedtobeasailboatcaptainandloved teaching4thgrade. at work at play
Jeffrey Mitchell
HeadofSchool
CurreyIngramAcademy
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance, LeadershipTransitions(newheadship,successionplanning, interimleadership),ProfessionalDevelopment&Faculty Coaching,NewSchoolInitiativesorStartups,UsingData
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership(curriculum, instructionaldesign,accreditation),CurriculumMapping, LessonPlanningandUnitDesign,TechnologyIntegration& Innovation,LowerSchool,MiddleSchool,UpperSchool, AcademicSupportandAccommodations
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,Fundraising&Advancement, EnrollmentManagement,Marketing,Communications,Legal &ComplianceIssues,LearningManagementSystems
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices,InternationalorGlobal Programs
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership,Residential Life/BoardingPrograms,CrisisManagement&School Saf t at work at play
CareerSnapshot
Withover30yearsineducationandleadership rolesacrosstheU.S.andCanada,Icurrentlyserve asHeadofSchoolatCurreyIngramAcademy,aK12independentschooldedicatedtostudentswith learningdifferences.Myexpertisespans educationalpsychology,strategicplanning,and schoolleadership,withastrongcommitmentto inclusiveexcellence,data-informeddecisionmaking,andcultivatingmission-drivenschool cultures.
MentoringPhilosophy
Myapproachtomentorshipisrootedinreciprocal growth,clearcommunication,andmission alignment.Drawingonmyexperienceasaschool leader,educator,andaccreditationchair,Iview mentorshipasacollaborativeprocesswhereboth mentorandmenteelearn,reflect,andgrow together.Ivaluecuriosity,humility,andinitiativein amentee,andIstrivetoofferperspective, accountability,andencouragement.Effective mentorship,inmyview,islessaboutprescribing answersandmoreaboutfosteringinsight, resilience,andprincipledleadershipthrough inquiryandsharedexperience.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Iliketoleadaveryactivelifestyle.Sports,games, experiences,travel,etc,floatmyboat.
Mentors
HeadofSchool Adam Moore
WoodlandPresbyterianSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership(curriculum, instructionaldesign,accreditation),MiddleSchool, AcademicSupportandAccommodations
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,Fundraising&Advancement, EnrollmentManagement,Marketing,Communications
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,FaithBased/Values-BasedSchoolLeadership
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership,Crisis Management&SchoolSafety
CareerSnapshot
Ispentfiveyearsinpublicschoolasamiddle schoolteacherandcoach.Sinceatrasitionin 2008,I’vebeenatWoodlandasateacher, coach,DivisionHead,andHeadofSchool.
MentoringPhilosophy
Mentorshipisatitsbestwhenwearelearning fromeachotherandenjoyingtheconversation.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Ienjoyfishingandpickleball.Ihavefive children,allofwhomwentthroughWoodland (endsin8thgrade).
Kristen Ring
PresidentandHeadofSchool
HutchisonSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
BoardRelations&Governance,LeadershipTransitions(new headship,successionplanning,interimleadership),NewSchool InitiativesorStartups
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership(curriculum, instructionaldesign,accreditation),EarlyChildhood,Lower School,MiddleSchool,UpperSchool,AcademicSupportand Accommodations
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,Fundraising&Advancement, EnrollmentManagement
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership
OrganizationalCulture
CareerSnapshot
Thisismy9thyearasHOS.PreviouslyIserved asanassistantHOSforAcademics,anupper schoolhead,andranaschoolwithinaschool forstudentswithlearningdisabilities.Priorto movingintoadministration,Iwasapublic schoolteacherfor12years."People"aremy strength.Icanoftenseewhenpeoplemightbe inthewrongseatandcanfindwaysto maneuverpeoplesotheyareinthebestroles forthemandtheinstitution.
MentoringPhilosophy
Honesty.Therearefew"safe"professional relationshipswhereonecanbevulnerableand leanintotheareastheywanttogrow.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Iuseexercisetofindmyequilibriuminlife.Itis astressfuljobandIhavetomovemybodya lot.Fromawalkingtreadmillinmyofficeto havingapersonaltrainerandtakingyoga classes,Ihavefoundthatitiswhatkeeps harmfulstressatbay.
Lauren Rogers
HeadofUpperSchool
St.Mary'sEpiscopalSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance, LeadershipTransitions(newheadship,succession planning,interimleadership),ProfessionalDevelopment &FacultyCoaching
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership(curriculum, instructionaldesign,accreditation),DepartmentChair, TechnologyIntegration&Innovation,UpperSchool
Fundraising&Advancement,Communications,Learning ManagementSystems
Diversity,Equity,Inclusion,andBelonging,ParentPartnerships& CommunityEngagement,StudentWellbeing&SupportServices, Faith-Based/Values-BasedSchoolLeadership
ResidentialLife/BoardingPrograms
CareerSnapshot
Fortwodecades,Laurenhasworkedin independentschoolsthroughouttheSouthasa teacher,departmentchair,dean,fundraiser, anddivisionhead.Shehasexperienceworking insingle-sex,coed,boardinganddayschools, andshelovestalkingaboutteaching,learning, andallthingseducation.
MentoringPhilosophy
Mypreferredmentorshipapproachisbasedon acoachingapproachwherewecollaborateto identifygoalsbasedonthementee'sinterests.I valueopenconversationandcollaborationin mentoringrelationships,andIalwayslook forwardtogettingtoknowandsupportfolksin oursharedworkofinspiringyoungpeople.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Iamatennisfanatic,andIlookforwardto spendingtimeoncourtaswellaswatchingthe sport.
Hart Roper
HeadofSchool
OakHillSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance, LeadershipTransitions(newheadship,succession planning,interimleadership),ProfessionalDevelopment& FacultyCoaching
AcademicLeadership(curriculum,instructionaldesign, accreditation),LowerSchool,MiddleSchool,Academic SupportandAccommodations
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,Fundraising& Advancement,EnrollmentManagement,Marketing, Communications,Legal&ComplianceIssues
Faith-Based/Values-BasedSchoolLeadership
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership,Crisis Management&SchoolSafety
CareerSnapshot
Thisyearmarksmy25thyearworkingin independentschools.Ibeganmycareerasa 6th-gradeteacherandcoachatSt.Albans SchoolinWashington,D.C.,andtransitioned intoadministrativerolesaftercompleting graduateschoolin2008.IwentontoserveSt. AlbansasDirectorofAdmissionsandlater workedinthedevelopmentofficeat MontgomeryBellAcademybeforebeing namedHeadofSchoolatOakHillSchoolin 2018.
MentoringPhilosophy
I’mflexibleandopentowhateverthementee hopestogainfromthementorship.Iliketo beginbyclearlydefiningourgoalsand objectives,thenworkbackwardtocreatea planforachievingthem.
FunFactorPersonalNote
I’malifelongsoccerfan,havingplayedthe sportforyearsbeforecoachingaftercollege. Thesedays,myweekendsrevolvearoundmy children’ssoccergames—andanyTottenham Hotspurmatch!Ialsoenjoyagreatbingeworthyshow;TheBearismymostrecent favorite.
meredith ruffner
HeadofSchool
Peter’sEpiscopalSchool
easofExperienceandExpertise
EarlyChildhood&SpecialEducation;Differentiated InstructionforDiverseLearners;Elementary&MiddleSchool LearningSupport;InclusiveClassroomStrategies FacultyMentorship&ProfessionalDevelopment SchoolAccreditation&Evaluation(TeamMember& Leader);StrategicSchoolLeadership&Headship CapitalCampaignLeadership&CampusExpansion FundraisingthroughDonorCultivation&Stewardship Mission-DrivenDevelopment&CommunityEngagement Parish-SchoolCollaboration&Faith-BasedEducation VisionaryPlanning&SchoolCultureBuilding Board&ParentPartnerships&Communication
CareerSnapshot
MentoringPhilosophy
Iapproachmentoringasareciprocalrelationship rootedintrust,activelistening,andthoughtful guidance.Ivaluecreatingasafeandencouraging spacewhereindividualsfeelsupportedtotakerisks, reflecthonestly,andgrowwithconfidence.Whether I’mmentoringanewteacher,anaspiringleader,or acolleague,Istrivetoleadwithempathy,offer practicalinsight,andaskmeaningfulquestionsthat helpothersdiscovertheirvoiceanddirection.
FunFactorPersonalNote
WithaBachelor’sdegreeinSpecialEducationanda MasterofEducationinSchoolLeadership,Ibringover twodecadesofexperienceineducation,including20 yearsasaclassroomteacherinbothpublicand independentschoolsettings.Forthepast13years,I haveservedasheadofschool,whereI’veledwitha focusonacademicexcellence,communitybuilding, andmission-drivenleadership.Mybackground reflectsadeepcommitmenttoinclusiveeducation andaproventrackrecordofstrategicand compassionateschoolleadership.
Inmysparetime,Ienjoyhiking,sailing,and travelingwithmyfamilyandfriends.
President Ansel Sanders
WebbSchoolofKnoxville
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance,Professional Development&FacultyCoaching
ClassroomTeaching,MiddleSchool,UpperSchool
Fundraising&Advancement
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement, InternationalorGlobalPrograms
ResidentialLife/BoardingPrograms,CrisisManagement& SchoolSafety
CareerSnapshot
IcurrentlyserveasPresidentofWebbSchoolof Knoxvilleandhavedonesosince2023. Priorto WebbSchool,IservedasAssistantHeadmaster andDeanofStudentsatWoodberryForest SchoolinVirginia. PrevioustoWoodberry,I servedinseveralcapacitieswithinthepublic schoolsector(andacrossgeographies), rangingfromteaching,administration,leading anon-profit.
MentoringPhilosophy
Iwanttobepresentandconsistentasa mentor,aswellasbeanactivelistener. Ialso valuethemutuallybeneficialopportunity presentedbymentorship,asthementeecan certainlysupportthementorinvariousways.
FunFactorPersonalNote
I'magirldadwithan8thgrader,7thgrader, and6thgrader! Ilovesport,too...watching them,talkingaboutthem,evenplayingthem (whentheopportunityarises).
Brad Sewell
HeadofSchool
PresbyterianDaySchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance, LeadershipTransitions(newheadship,successionplanning, interimleadership),ProfessionalDevelopment&Faculty Coaching,NewSchoolInitiativesorStartups
ClassroomTeaching,TechnologyIntegration&Innovation, EarlyChildhood,LowerSchool
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,Fundraising&Advancement, EnrollmentManagement,Marketing,Communications, Legal&ComplianceIssues
Faith-Based/Values-BasedSchoolLeadership, InternationalorGlobalPrograms
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership,Crisis Management&SchoolSafety at work at play
CareerSnapshot
I'veservedinindependentschooleducationfor 16years.Mycareerbeganasamiddleschool historyteacher,thenDirectorofAdmissions, AssistantHeadofSchool,andnowaHeadof Schoolforthepastnineyears.
MentoringPhilosophy
Myapproachissimplytohelpanyonelooking forfutureleadershipopportunitiesinthe independentschoollandscape.
FunFactorPersonalNote
I'manoutdoorsman.Ithoroughlyenjoyhiking, skiing,andanythingadventurous.
Andy Sheets
HeadofSchool
ProvidenceChristianAcademy
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,LeadershipTransitions(newheadship, successionplanning,interimleadership),Professional Development&FacultyCoaching,NewSchoolInitiativesor Startups
ClassroomTeaching,AcademicLeadership(curriculum, instructionaldesign,accreditation),CurriculumMapping, LessonPlanningandUnitDesign,TechnologyIntegration& Innovation,MiddleSchool,UpperSchool,AcademicSupport andAccommodations
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,Fundraising&Advancement, Communications,LearningManagementSystems
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices,Faith-Based/Values-Based SchoolLeadership
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership at work at play
CareerSnapshot
Ihaveservedin6independent/privateschools overmynearly30yearcareer. Ihavebeenin mycurrentschoolfor13years. Ihaveservedas DeanofStudents,MiddleSchoolPrincipal,High SchoolPrincipal,Asst.HeadofSchool,andHead ofSchool. Areasofexpertise-teaching& learning,culture/climate-student&faculty, professionaldevelopment&faculty development,communication,events,school finances,etc.
MentoringPhilosophy
Relational/servantleadership. I'mopenand honestaboutmysuccessandfailures. I'm willingtosharewhatIknow,butalsolearnfrom mymentee. Honesty,curiosity. Iserveina Christianschool,whichisveryimportanttome, andIwouldsaymenteeshouldbecomfortable withthat.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Hobbies-reading,exercise,playing guitar/drums,sportscards.
HeadofSchool
St.Mary’sEpiscopalSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
StrategicPlanning,BoardRelations&Governance,School masterplans
DepartmentChair,TechnologyIntegration&Innovation,Upper School
Fundraising&Advancement,Communications,Legal& ComplianceIssues
Diversity,Equity,Inclusion,andBelonging,Faith-Based/ValuesBasedSchoolLeadership
CrisisManagement&SchoolSafety
CareerSnapshot
IstartedasanEnglishteacherin1991and helpedleadtechnologyintegrationwith laptops,takingonmoreadmindutiesin professionaldevelopment accreditation, buildingprojects,andstrategicplanning.I havebeeninthreeEpiscopalschools,twoday schools,andoneboardingschool. Ihave movedupasteacher,programdirector, assistanthead,andfinallyheadforthelast13 years.
work at play
MentoringPhilosophy
Inbothroles,Ivaluequestionsandactive listening,curiosity,sharedexperiences.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Iliketoactoccasionallyinstudentshows,I amwritingachildren’sbook,andlikeThe Bear.
Albert Throckmorton Mentors
Kristin Watts
HeadofSchool
TheBrightSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
LeadershipTransitions(newheadship,successionplanning, interimleadership)
EarlyChildhood
Fundraising&Advancement,EnrollmentManagement
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,Student Wellbeing&SupportServices
MentoringPhilosophy
CareerSnapshot
Iamenteringintomy30thyearineducation, workingwithallagesfrominfantsthrough college.Afterstartinginadmissionsand fundraising,Ihaveworkedasaschoolheadin AtlantaandChattanoogaforthepastnine years.
Iloveallthingssports,especiallyfootball. at work at play
Ifeelpassionatelyaboutbuildingastrong pipelineofschoolleadersinindependent schools,whichiswhymentoringisso important.Trustandconfidentialityarevery importantelementstoamentorrelationship.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Mentors
HeadofSchool Bryan Williams
ChristMethodistDaySchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
BoardRelations&Governance,ProfessionalDevelopment& FacultyCoaching,NewSchoolInitiativesorStartups
AcademicLeadership(curriculum,instructionaldesign, accreditation),EarlyChildhood,LowerSchool,MiddleSchool
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,Fundraising&Advancement, EnrollmentManagement,Marketing,Communications,Legal& ComplianceIssues
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement,FaithBased/Values-BasedSchoolLeadership
AthleticsorExtracurricularProgramLeadership,Crisis Management&SchoolSafety at work at play
CareerSnapshot
IamHeadofSchoolatChristMethodistDay School(grades2K-6TH).Thisismy12thyear. BeforeCMDS,IwasatBriarcrestasan8th gradeEnglishteacherandcoachfor7years andelementaryprincipalfor7years.
MentoringPhilosophy
Myapproachandgoalistopassalong practicalknowledgetoaspiringleaders.Ilove tobeabletotalkthroughscenariosandshare helpfultipsonleadershipinschoolsandin general.Icomeatthingsalotthroughmy Christianfaith,butsomuchofthatissimple andrealleadershipthatapplieseverywhere.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Myfamilyisveryimportanttome.Weloveto travelandspendtimetogetheroutsideof work!MywifeandIhavethreechildrenthat areallincollegeorabouttoentercollege.
Jon Wilson
HeadofSchool
TheEdisonSchool
AreasofExperienceandExpertise
BoardRelations&Governance,Leadership Transitions(newheadship,successionplanning, interimleadership),ProfessionalDevelopment& FacultyCoaching,NewSchoolInitiativesorStartups
AcademicSupportandAccommodations
SchoolFinance&Budgeting,Fundraising& Advancement,EnrollmentManagement, Communications
CareerSnapshot
Ispent14yearsinaprivate,Christianschoolin Florida,whereIwastheelementaryprincipalfor nineyears.Iamcurrentlyinmyeighthyearas HeadofSchoolatTheEdisonSchool.Teamwork anddevelopingleadersaretheareasIfocus onatEdisonandwithinmycommunityatlarge.
MentoringPhilosophy
ParentPartnerships&CommunityEngagement, StudentWellbeing&SupportServices,FaithBased/Values-BasedSchoolLeadership at work at play
Mygoalistohelpamenteeseetheirpotential andreachitintheircareerandlife.Ivalue transparent,open,andhonestcommunication. Asamentor,Iamservingasaguidefora menteeashe/sheworkstobuildacareerthey canbeproudof.
FunFactorPersonalNote
Takingoveraschoolonthevergeofclosingand turningitaround.
Iamtheproudfatherofa23-year-oldyoung manwhohastaughtmemoreaboutliving withoutregardtowhatothersthink.Heisdeafblindanddiagnosedwithautism,butthesedo notdefinehimorkeephimfromhispassion, playingthepiano.
OneofmyfavoritequotesisfromCorrieTen Boom."Themeasureofalife,afterall,isnotits duration,butitsdonation."
Thankyouforexploringthe2025–2026TAISMentorsDirectory.Wearedeeplygratefulto theseleadersforsharingtheirtime,experience,andperspectivewithourcommunity.
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