Allentown, PA – Dr. Armistead Webster has been named Head of School by The Swain School Board of Trustees, effective July 1, 2020.  Webster is currently the Lower School Head at Gilman School in Baltimore, MD.

“Swain is a joyful place of learning where teachers know and care about their students. I was struck by the energy, creativity and dedication of the faculty and the vibrant learning environment. I am excited to be coming to Swain as Head of School and look forward to becoming a part of this dynamic community,” said Armistead Webster upon acceptance of the position.

Dr. Webster began his career in education as a public school elementary teacher in New York and Colorado, before becoming an administrator. After holding two principalships, he moved into independent education to become Lower School Principal at the Norwood School (PK-8) in MD. Armistead remained there for eleven years before being appointed Head of School at Renbrook School (PK3 – Grade 9) in CT. He became Lower School Head (PK-5) at Gilman School (PK-12) in Baltimore in 2014.

As Head of School at Renbrook, Armistead’s notable accomplishments included marketing and admission initiatives to stabilize enrollment, creating a more diverse and inclusive community, and supporting teacher professional development. At Gilman, Armistead integrated Responsive Classroom, led conversations around equity and inclusion, and supported hands-on learning and outdoor education.

Armistead holds a BA in Religion from Princeton University, an MA in Deafness Education from New York University, and a Ph.D. in Educational Administration, Supervision and Curriculum from the University of Colorado. In addition, Armistead has served on numerous boards, including the CT Association of Independent Schools (CAIS), the Westminster School (CT), and Princeton University. He was an instructor with the Black Student Fund (DC) for seven years and on the Leadership Team at the New Principals Academy in Denver for three years.

Lori Schoeneman, Trustee Board Chair noted, “We are delighted with the outcome of our search and look forward to welcoming Dr. Webster to the Swain School community.  We are confident he will embrace our community’s joy for learning, parent partnerships and collaboration.  Armistead is committed to build upon the approach of research-based practices and what is best for children.  He is a kind, thoughtful communicator who will continue to lead Swain into the future while honoring the amazing elements that we all love.”

Dr. Webster’s appointment is the result of an extensive process that began in early November. The Search Committee, led by Chair Greg Scagliotti, launched an international search in partnership with Educators’ Collaborative consultants Jean Lamont and Sally Mixsell. From an initial pool of 60 individuals, the Search Committee invited seven candidates to off-site interviews in January. Following these interviews, three semi-finalist candidates were invited to campus in February to meet students, faculty, staff, parents, administrators and trustees. After careful consideration from all constituents, the Search Committee selected Armistead Webster as its nominee to the Board of Trustees for the next Head of School. The Trustees unanimously approved this recommendation in March.

Dr. Webster will succeed Dr. Shannan Boyle Schuster as Swain’s next Head of School.

 

Information provided to TVL onbehal of The Swain School by:
Ashley Lorah
Emmaus Main Street Manager & Manager, Affiliated Chambers (East Penn, Western Lehigh & Southern Lehigh)
Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce
https://www.lehighvalleychamber.org/

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