It is our great pleasure to announce the appointment of Jon Bartlett as Brookwood’s sixth Head of School, effective August 2, 2021. The Board’s decision followed an enthusiastic recommendation by the Search Committee, which was informed by broad, thoughtful and positive input from the school community. The breadth of Jon’s experience, especially as a successful head of two evolving independent schools, and his approachable and engaging style are an excellent fit for our school community.
Throughout his career, Jon has demonstrated the professional agility necessary to lead across all areas of independent school life. At his most recent school, St. Andrew’s Pangbourne, Jon has played an instrumental role in driving enrollment, while also leading several fundraising efforts to strengthen the school’s facilities. He has led with a commitment to growth and innovation, all while recognizing the importance of preserving school traditions. In addition to having the vision and skills to manage a school in today’s complex environment, Jon exemplifies an authentic spirit, an energy and a determination that resonated with faculty and parents.
Jon exemplifies an authentic spirit, an energy and a determination that resonated with faculty and parents.
Jon also brings an “educator’s heart” to this role — one that is dedicated fundamentally to the well-being of students. He pairs this understanding with a longstanding commitment to academic excellence. His educational philosophy is centered on teaching to the whole child and fostering a strong sense of self, which has never been more important than it is today. His warm personality, rapport with students and parents and strong sense of integrity complement his impressive range of skills.
Jon began his journey as an independent school educator at Brookwood School as an 8th grade Social Studies teacher from 1996 to 1999, and he writes that his “experience as a young teacher at Brookwood has had a profound influence on me professionally, both as an educator and as a school leader.” He has a deep appreciation for our unique culture. He recognizes the importance of a strong academic program that puts children first. He knows that we must continue to move forward as educators and as a community in an increasingly dynamic market. During visits with our community this summer, Jon referred to Brookwood as a “sleeping giant,” citing a desire to explore opportunities in educational models, diversity, equity and inclusion, the arts, athletics, and engagement in our local community and beyond.
Jon joins our community with his wife, Lisa, who grew up in Newburyport. They have three high school and college-aged children, and are looking forward to returning to this special place, personally and professionally. The Board is eager to introduce Jon and Lisa to the community over the course of this coming school year.
In Jon, we believe we found an inspiring, engaging leader who embodies our mission. We are confident that Brookwood will thrive under Jon’s leadership in the years ahead.
Theresa Ellis P ‘24, ‘30, Board Chair
Gavin McGrath ‘97, P ’26, ’28, ’31, Search Committee Co-chair
Jenny Perkin P ’18, ’20, ’23, Search Committee Co-chair
Search Committee: Molly Cook P ‘26, ‘28, trustee; John Corcoran P ‘24, trustee; Sara Day P ‘24, parent; Ray Falconer P ‘20, ‘20, faculty; Katy Langhorst P ‘21, ‘23, trustee; Monica Palmer P ‘24, trustee; Moira Smith P ‘22, ‘22, ‘24, faculty and Chris Welles P ‘03, ‘04, ‘06, ‘09, past trustee
