Welcome New Heads - 2026-2027

JULIA BIENSTOCK
Co-clerk, Arthur Morgan School (NC)

Julia will co-clerk with Arden Boyd. This is her third year working at Arthur Morgan School. She has held other roles at the school, such as Academic Coordinator and Houseparent. This year, she is excited to continue teaching Spanish and Social Studies, as well as directing the fall play. She appreciates participating in the consensus process and having the privilege to develop meaningful relationships with students and staff in a tight-knit community. 

Before coming to Arthur Morgan School, Julia worked with children and adults in public schools and universities. After teaching English in Spain at IE University, she was excited to work with children and be deeply connected to the outdoors. She enjoys the Arthur Morgan School in particular for its unique emphasis on living simply, horizontal collaboration, and guiding students to think critically. Julia looks forward to continuing to teach in and out of the classroom alongside her new administrative role. 

Julia earned a B.A. in Philosophy and Spanish from Kalamazoo College.

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JOHN BAIN
Interim Head of School, Virginia Beach Friends School (VA)

John joins Virginia Beach Friends School with more than 15 years of experience in teaching and educational leadership across both independent schools and public-school systems. A Virginia Beach native and lifelong enthusiast of the Outer Banks, John began his career as a coastal ecologist before expanding into the intersection of science and public policy. This blend of disciplines ultimately led him to serve as an instructor at Tidewater Community College.

Since that first introduction to teaching, John has continued to deepen his passion for students, learning, and curriculum design in a wide range of academic settings. He has developed high school and college courses, created a K–5 curriculum to accompany a nationally traveling oceanographic art exhibit, and served as associate director of admissions at Norfolk Collegiate. His work demonstrates a commitment to experiential learning, interdisciplinary thinking, and helping students connect their studies to the world around them.

John earned his bachelor’s degree from the College of William & Mary, a master’s in Environmental Management from Duke University, and a Ph.D. in Ecological Sciences from Old Dominion University.

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DENNIS BISGAARD
Interim Head of School, William Penn Charter School (PA)

With more than 20 years of experience leading independent schools, Dennis brings to Penn Charter a deep commitment to student growth, community, and Quaker principles and practices. 

Dennis’s journey is shaped by a global life experience prior to his U.S. career as a classroom teacher, coach, advisor, and DEI practitioner. Most recently, he served as Head of Maret School in Washington, D.C., where he advanced strategic planning, curricular review, athletics facilities, and community spaces. Previously, Dennis served as Interim Head of School at Friends School of Baltimore (MD), Park Tudor School, and The Northwest School. He spent 12 years as Head of Kingswood Oxford School in Connecticut, where he expanded fundraising and academic opportunities, strengthened facilities, and founded the Kingswood Oxford Leadership Institute for Educators of Color. He also served as Founding Head at Whittle School & Studios in D.C., Associate Head at Shady Hill School in Cambridge, and as a teacher and administrator at Collegiate School in New York City and Bryn Mawr School in Baltimore. 

Dennis holds advanced degrees from Columbia University and Odense Universitet in Denmark and has served on the NAIS Board of Trustees.

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KIMBERLY BLAKE
Head of School, Friends School Haverford (PA)

Kim brings extensive experience in educational leadership and in creating inclusive, child-centered learning environments to Friends School Haverford. Most recently, she served as a Regional Superintendent for Mastery Charter Schools in Philadelphia and Camden, where she developed principals as instructional leaders and fostered a culture of collaboration and mutual respect.

Her career began as a Bilingual Kindergarten Teacher in the School District of Philadelphia. She later became the Founding Principal of Molina Lower School and an Executive Reading Coach for the American Reading Company.

Kim has deep appreciation for Quaker education. Her priority is “to continue to foster a joyful and engaging learning environment where each child’s inner Light shines brilliantly.” She was drawn to Friends School Haverford because it “has always been, and will continue to be, a school where curiosity is nurtured, confidence is built, and kindness and care are palpable.”

Kim holds a B.S. in Elementary Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University, and a Doctorate of Education in Education Administration from Immaculata University.

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MATT BRADLEY

Matt became the head of school of Plymouth Meeting Friends School after serving as interim head from July 2025 through February 2026.

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BROOKE CARROLL
Head of School (from January 1, 2027), Sandy Spring Friends School (MD)

Brooke will bring 30 years of experience in educational psychology, governance, and leadership development to her role as head of school. An alum of Sandy Spring Friends School, Brooke describes her time there as transformational and is committed to advancing its future. “The school’s core mission is more valuable and needed today than ever,” she shares. “It offers young people the chance to practice living in community while engaging in a strong academic program. We need more people in the world who are able to let their lives speak.”

Earlier in her career, Brooke helped launch a residential charter school in Massachusetts. She later returned to Sandy Spring Friends as Director of Residential Life and subsequently served as head of Seneca Academy for nine years. An ICF-certified coach and author, Brooke most recently supported schools and nonprofits on leadership, governance, and strategic decision making as Principal at Acies Strategies.

A lifelong Quaker and member of Sandy Spring Monthly Meeting, Brooke earned her B.A. in Psychology from Bates College and her Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from the University of Minnesota.

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JEN CORT
Head of School, Friends Meeting School (MD)

Jen assumes the role of head with experience as a consultant, author, podcaster, and keynote speaker; this work has made her an influential voice in education. She has partnered with schools across the United States and internationally, supporting sustainable growth aligned with long-term institutional goals. Jen brings extensive experience in school assessments, capacity building, strategic planning, professional development, parent education, and advisory program design.

Jen’s leadership is grounded in collaboration—working closely with trustees, leadership teams, students, faculty, and families to build on each school’s strengths while addressing areas of need. Her approach ensures that all community members feel included and valued in the process.

A longtime Quaker in Residence at Friends Academy and a member of Sandy Spring Monthly Meeting, Jen previously served on the board of Friends Meeting School. She is deeply committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in educational communities. She also hosts the internationally syndicated and acclaimed podcast Third Space With Jen Cort, a platform for exploring these essential issues.

Jen holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from The Catholic University of America.

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ALFRED (RIK) F. DUGAN III
Head of School, Friends Academy (NY)

Rik joined Friends Academy in 2024 as the Principal of Lower School and then became Principal of Lower & Middle School in 2025. Prior to Friends Academy, Rik served for nine years as Head of School at Princeton Academy of the Sacred Heart in Princeton, NJ. His leadership of a diverse, mission-driven community grounded in faith-based principles has prepared him well for headship at Friends Academy and for navigating the complexities of independent school leadership today. Colleagues describe Rik as “the embodiment of collaborative leadership, religious pluralism, multiculturalism, and environmental sustainability,” noting that he “walks the walk of his own values: family, education, environmental sustainability, and tradition.”

Rik is a lifelong educator who has held leadership, teaching, and coaching roles across several schools and nonprofits, including Far Hills Country Day School and the Delbarton School. He has also served on several non-profit and educational boards.
Rik holds a B.A. in English from Williams College and an M.A. in Educational Leadership from Teachers College, Columbia University.

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MICHELLE KLOSTERMAN
Head of School, New Garden Friends School (NC)

Michelle brings deep experience, clear vision, warmth, and a keen sense of purpose to New Garden Friends School. Her thoughtful leadership is grounded in curiosity and a steadfast commitment to students, faculty, and families. “I believe everyone is capable of and deserves the chance to keep growing, learning, and finding success,” she shares. “My goal is to build open, safe spaces where personal and organizational growth can flourish.”

A scientist, educator, and leader, Michelle has dedicated her career to creating meaningful learning experiences and helping school communities thrive. She has taught at the middle school, high school, and collegiate levels, and she served as Director of Global Academic Development and Assessment at Wake Forest University. She was also co-founder, co-principal investigator, and Associate Director for Outreach and Communication for the Centro de Innovación Científica Amazónica science and outreach center.

Michelle holds a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt Peabody College and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Vanderbilt University. She earned a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction and a Specialist Degree in Special Education from the University of Florida.

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BRENDA LEAKS
Head of School, San Francisco Friends School (CA)

Brenda joins San Francisco Friends School after serving as head of school at Seattle Girls’ School, where she guided the school through strategic growth and significant program development. Previously, she was Middle School Head at The Overlake School and at Trinity Episcopal School of Austin.

A skilled fundraiser and collaborative leader, Brenda has championed faculty professional learning, strengthened student support systems, and expanded diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. She began her career in the classroom and remains deeply connected to teaching and student life, having taught Spanish at Forest Park High School, The Baldwin School, and The Shipley School. She believes deeply that the relationships formed through teaching, coaching, and mentoring are central to a vibrant school community.

Brenda has served as a faculty member for the NAIS Institute for New Heads as well as on the board of a number of independent schools, Leadership+Design, and the International Coalition of Girls Schools.

She earned a B.A. in Secondary Education with a minor in Spanish from Notre Dame of Maryland University and an M.S. in Educational Leadership from Teachers College, Columbia University, where she completed the Klingenstein Private School Leadership Program.

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MEREDITH SHANKLE
Acting Head of School (until December 31, 2026), Sandy Spring Friends School (MD)

Meredith has worked at Sandy Spring Friends School since 2014 and will serve as Acting Head of School until Brooke Carroll begins her tenure in January 2027. She will then partner with Brooke as Assistant Head of School and Upper School Head, providing continuity and steady leadership during the transition.

Throughout her time at Sandy Spring Friends, Meredith has strengthened academic programs, supported faculty growth, advanced student support systems, and built meaningful relationships with students, families, and colleagues. As Head of Upper School, she guides daily operations and the strategic vision of the division, fostering a culture grounded in trust, connection, and purpose.

A collaborative and mission driven leader, Meredith is deeply committed to the school’s Quaker ethos and to ensuring that every student is known, supported, and empowered to thrive. Her experience in admissions, administration, and early childhood education gives her a broad perspective on school operations and the needs of students and families across age levels.

Meredith holds a Master of Education in Independent School Leadership from Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College and a Bachelor of Liberal Studies in Art History from Boston University.

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CHRIS SINGLER
Head of School, Friends Seminary (NY)

Chris joins Friends Seminary as Head of School after more than a decade as Director of the Upper School at Friends Select School (PA), where he led high-impact initiatives across academics, development, and strategic planning. His leadership in admissions and retention significantly strengthened enrollment and advanced the school’s long-term priorities.

Before Friends Select, Chris served as a Middle and Upper School Teacher and English Department Chair at Germantown Friends School (PA). He began his career teaching sixth grade at Plymouth Meeting Friends School (PA). After 30 years in Quaker education, he remains inspired by its capacity to shape thoughtful, engaged, and compassionate learners. He values Friends Seminary’s commitment to Quaker principles and academic excellence—a distinctive combination in today’s competitive, complex, and fast changing educational landscape. He has a calling to further Quaker education as a vehicle for fostering transformation—of self, of community, and of the wider world.

Chris graduated from Guilford College and earned his master’s in education from the University of Pennsylvania.

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HARDEVI VYAS
Director, Friends Neighborhood Nature School (NJ)

Prior to becoming director, Hardevi served on the board of trustees as Vice Chair, helping guide the mission and vision while developing a deep appreciation for the school’s unique community. Hardevi has worked in education for 15 years as a classroom teacher, professional development instructor, inquiry-based curriculum designer, and community and belonging leader in Monroe Township School District and Stevens Cooperative School. Hardevi is passionate about creating a school culture where curiosity is celebrated, relationships are at the heart of learning, and nature serves as both classroom and teacher. She believes children learn best through play, emergent and authentic experiences, and with mindfulness and intentionality from educators. Hardevi is committed to cultivating a joyful community rooted in the Quaker testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship.

Hardevi holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Rider University and a Bachelor of Science in Philosophy and Marketing from Rutgers University. She is a Certified Nature-Based Teacher through the Association of Nature-Based Education, and has completed professional learning with Project Zero at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.