Head of School Transition

Dear Alcuin Community,

 

It is with great honor and heartfelt excitement that I begin this new chapter as Head of School at Alcuin. I am deeply grateful to the Board of Trustees, the Search Committee, and the entire community for their confidence and for entrusting me to lead this extraordinary school.

 

From the very beginning, and in every encounter since, I have been struck by the vibrant energy of Alcuin, where the mission is not just stated but genuinely lived. Grace and Courtesy guide each interaction with purpose and care. The attributes of the IB learner profile are evident in the way students think critically, ask brave questions, and embrace new challenges to make a positive impact on the world. I have also been inspired by the faculty and staff’s intentional commitment to excellence and whole-person education. Together, they beautifully embody the transformative power and distinctive value of Alcuin’s Montessori and IB programs. 

 

Alcuin is a place where discovery is celebrated, innovation is nurtured, and inspiration is palpable. Each time I step onto campus, I experience a true sense of belonging that reaffirms this is precisely where I am meant to be. From an early age, my parents instilled in me a belief that has guided my path ever since: education is one of life’s greatest gifts. That principle has shaped every step of my journey as an educator and leader, and I feel truly fortunate to have found a school that embraces this belief with the same conviction.

 

I am also heartened by the symbolism of the Hawk, the school’s mascot, as it powerfully reflects what we strive to instill in students. Like the Hawk, they are encouraged to see the world with clarity and perspective, rising to great heights while remaining grounded in our mission and values. With its vision, resilience, and adaptability, the Hawk mirrors the qualities we aim to cultivate as students navigate a complex, fast-changing world with wisdom, innovation, and integrity. At Alcuin, we guide students to soar with purpose—to become compassionate global leaders who recognize our shared humanity and approach the world with curiosity, courage, and a deep sense of responsibility.

 

Aligned with my commitment to leading with data, research, and heart, I am eager to listen with intention to and learn from each member of the Alcuin community as we build upon its remarkable legacy. In July, I will spend time connecting with faculty and staff and learning more about the day-to-day life of the school. Starting in August, I will host community focus groups and share a survey to gather your invaluable insights and hopes for the future, followed by meet-and-greets and informal gatherings in the weeks ahead. I greatly appreciate the opportunity to build meaningful relationships and learn from your experiences.

 

It is a privilege to partner with you as we write Alcuin’s next chapter of shared aspiration and bold possibilities—where Hawks continue to soar to their highest potential and reach new levels of excellence. Guided by our mission, we will create a unifying strategic vision to serve as our North Star, guiding Alcuin toward its brightest future yet. Together, we will achieve the goals of today and bring to life the dreams of tomorrow.

 

Wholeheartedly and with appreciation,

 

 

Paola V. Clark, Ed.D.

Head of School