Head of School Search
The Board of Trustees is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Sally Maxwell as the next Head of School of John Bapst Memorial High School, effective July 1, 2026.
Dr. Maxwell brings more than three decades of experience in education, beginning in public education in 1994 and later moving into independent school leadership. Throughout her career, she has held senior roles focused on teaching and learning, faculty development, and academic program design at mission-driven, college-preparatory schools.
Throughout the search process, Dr. Maxwell demonstrated a strong commitment to listening, learning, and engaging with the John Bapst community. One member of the community captured this well: “Dr. Maxwell brings the experience, clarity, and collaborative leadership needed to help guide John Bapst confidently into its next chapter. Her approach reflects both respect for the school’s legacy and a clear-eyed understanding of the work ahead.”
Faculty who met with Dr. Maxwell echoed this perspective, noting her steady presence, thoughtful questions, and respect for the complexity of teaching and learning in a close-knit school community—qualities that align closely with the priorities identified during the search.
In accepting the appointment, Dr. Maxwell shared, “John Bapst is a gem of a school in a gem of a city. It’s the best of all worlds—rigorous and kind, locally rooted and internationally inclusive, and independently run and publicly accessible. I am honored to join the John Bapst community and collaborate with the Board, faculty, staff, students, and families as we honor the school’s strengths and advance its mission into its second century.”
Board Chair Daniel LaMontagne noted, “Dr. Maxwell stood out for her ability to balance vision with execution, and confidence with humility. She understands both the complexity and the privilege of leading a school like John Bapst, and the Board is confident she is exceptionally well prepared to guide the school into its next chapter.”
A former Head of School who worked closely with Dr. Maxwell said, “Sally leads with integrity, clarity, and deep respect for people. She listens carefully, builds trust, and brings a student-centered approach to leadership. John Bapst is gaining a head of school who understands how to steward both people and mission.”
Dr. Maxwell holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Tulane University, a master’s degree in education and social policy from Northwestern University, and a doctorate in teaching, learning, and curriculum from the University of Pennsylvania.
This appointment follows a thoughtful search process and reflects strong alignment around the needs and priorities of the school. The Board extends its sincere gratitude to the Search Committee and to the many faculty, staff, students, parents, alumni, and trustees who contributed their insight and care throughout this process.
Sally will be moving to Bangor with her husband, John; their soon-to-be middle schooler, Bear; and their two cats, Pikachu and Charizard. Marvel, the family's college-age child, will be helping the family with their move this summer. They are soccer fans (St. Louis City and Real Madrid), and Sally enjoys gardening, music, comic books, and travel. Please join us in welcoming Sally and her family to the John Bapst community!
Sincerely,
Daniel LaMontagne, Board Chair
James Strout ‘02, Head of School Search Committee
On behalf of the John Bapst Board of Trustees
Leadership Transition
On March 31, 2025, Head of School Dr. David Armistead, resigned to pursue other challenges and to spend more time with his family. Dr. Armistead served as Head of School since 2021 and dedicated 19 years of service to John Bapst in a variety of leadership roles. The Board of Trustees is grateful for his commitment to the school over many years. Current school leadership guided the school through the remainder of the academic year.
Search Process
The Board of Trustees has engaged Carney, Sandoe & Associates (CS&A), a nationally recognized and respected educational search and consulting firm, to assist in recruiting the next Head of School. CS&A is partnering closely with a Board of Trustees - appointed Search Committee to guide this important process. The search will include broad input from the John Bapst community, with regular updates shared here and to the school community to ensure transparency and engagement.
Search Committee
The Search Committee represents a cross-section of John Bapst’s leadership and school community. The group includes trustees, faculty, and staff to ensure broad perspectives and representation.
The Board Chair appointed members to the Search Committee using a set of guiding principles adopted by the Board of Trustees. These principles prioritized both Trustee and staff representation while ensuring the committee was the right size to work efficiently. The Board Chair serves as an ex officio member to maintain close alignment with the full Board.
Committee Members:
- James Strout ’02 – Board of Trustees, Finance Chair; Search Committee Chair
- Paul Messer ’94 – Board of Trustees, Secretary
- Anthony Pellegrini, Esq. – Board of Trustees
- Samantha Mahar – Fine Arts Department Chair
- Yue Louisa Deng – Director of International Program and Recruitment
- Dan LaMontagne – Board of Trustees, Board Chair (ex officio)
The Search Committee is working in close partnership with CS&A to run a thoughtful and transparent process that reflects John Bapst’s mission and values.
About Carney, Sandoe & Associates
CS&A is a nationally recognized firm specializing in independent school leadership searches. With a strong track record of successful placements, they bring deep expertise in independent school leadership and are committed to supporting John Bapst in identifying an outstanding next Head of School. See here for more information: Carney Sandoe | Expert Faculty & Leadership
Placement Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is leading the search?
The search is being guided by the Board-appointed Search Committee, working in partnership with CS&A.
What is the timeline?
The search will take place during the 2025–2026 academic year, with the next Head of School
expected to begin service on July 1, 2026.
How will the community be involved?
Faculty, staff, parents, alumni, and students will be invited to participate in listening sessions,
surveys, and other opportunities to share input during the search process.
Where can I find updates?
This page will serve as the central hub for updates, archived communications, and
announcements throughout the search.
