John Bapst Board Announces Dr. Sally Maxwell as the next Head of School

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