Dear Jarrow Parents,
Just over a year ago, the Jarrow Board of Trustees entrusted Mercedes and me with Interim Leadership, as plans were put in place for finding a new Head of School. Our goals for this year included a deepening of pedagogical practices, an embrace of Jarrow’s best vision for community and collaboration, additional attention to safety, facilities, and the flow and beauty of our gathering spaces and classrooms. In addition, attention has been invested in best practices with regard to administrative details, school policies and daily routines.
None of this would have been possible without your support and without the grace and willingness of our staff and their profound commitment to personal and professional collaboration. Together, we have done our best to deepen our work, we have held the needs of our students and families as our top priority at all times, we have strengthened our culture of gratitude and celebration, and made way for a luminescent new chapter for Jarrow.
And now as you know, plans are now in place to welcome Debbie Senoff-Langford as our new Head of School as the 2018-19 school year begins. As you will soon see, Debbie is a magnificent choice as Jarrow’s new leader. She is a visionary Montessorian, a judicious team builder, and is already invested deeply in the future of Jarrow as a unique and powerful influence in the world of independent schools in Boulder. I have no doubt that Jarrow’s wings to fly are gaining strength by the day.
In addition to Debbie’s welcome, it is my honor and privilege to announce Debbie’s appointment of Mercedes Dugan as Jarrow’s Assistant Head of School. This appointment will officially begin with Debbie’s arrival in August. In the meantime, Mercedes and I, along with our administrative team, will continue working closely with Debbie and with the Board and our incredible staff as plans are put in place for next year.
As you know, Mercedes has blessed Jarrow with over twenty years of service, first as a Primary Lead Teacher, then as Board member, and most recently (this year) as Associate Interim Head of School. Her ongoing presence will ensure continuity, a deep sense of institutional memory and a vital link between administration and staff.
With a humble bow, I offer a heart of congratulations to Mercedes, respect and thanks to Debbie and abiding gratitude to the Board, the staff and each of you for your steadfast partnership inside this incredible work and Dr. Montessori’s enduring vision of Education for Life.
With respect,
Mary Zeman
Interim Head of School