Saint Stephen’s has undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly in leadership. In 2023, longtime Head of School Dr. Jan Pullen retired, passing the torch to Mr. Peter Kraft. The Upper School also said goodbye to beloved Upper School Director Mr. Andrew Forrester after more than ten years at the tenure.

This year, former Academic Dean Mrs. Conn and English teacher Mr.Jamie Moore were named Interim US Director and US Assistant Director, respectively. Mid-semester, they were named permanent directors, and the duo began to leave their imprint on campus culture and policy as a whole.  

Junior Jeremiah Cox said the environment on campus has shifted to more relaxed this semester, despite what many saw as big changes in policies like discipline recording and tardy policies.   

“It’s definitely a lot more relaxed, which creates a really good environment for all the students and teachers here,” Cox said.

According to Junior Class President Sanjay Dastidar, one reflection on the leadership this year reveals attention to individuals and a direct approach. 

“Mr. Moore and Mrs. Conn are really good about approaching the students individually,” Dastidar said.  “And they’re very direct with their approach to the students.”

Dasditar explained that in his view, admin has been communicating directly rather than passing information for advisors to relay, through assembly discussions and morning announcements on topics like A.I. and dress code.

The communication from Mrs. Conn has been a big help to teachers, too.  Science teacher Ms. Caitlin Wildes said the administration gets their points across concisely and interestingly.

“I’ve enjoyed their communication with the student body,” said Wildes. “I think it’s kinda nice how they’ve presented the information.”

 “They’ve kept some of the traditions and things we expect,” Wildes added.  “But they’re having fun and adding their own spin on it.”

Science Department Chair Mrs. Charity Clough feels that accountable and enforcing policies have allowed for strong performance on campus.

“I like that they’ve [administration] paid attention to structure and detail,” Clough said. “I think they’ve been good about managing behavior and student accountability.”

Students, too, appreciate efforts from the top this year.  According to senior Ashley Black, the energy on campus has become nurturing towards the students.

“There’s a lot more support than last year because of Mrs Conn,” Black said. “She’s there to help everybody with anything they need.”

Mr. Whelan, a history teacher with over 30 years at the Upper School, commended Mr. Moore and Mrs. Conn for being very optimistic and accepting of the new roles. 

“As former teachers, they truly understand the challenges we face and often anticipate our needs before we even voice them,” Whelan said.

He also emphasized the critical role Director of Curriculum and Research Mrs. Pommer has played in supporting the transition. According to Whelan, her work has not only helped the faculty navigate academic matters, but has also ensured Mr. Moore and Mrs. Conn’s direction runs smoothly.