Derek Kanarek selected as new Head of Upper School

By Priya Klein ‘26

Catlin Gabel School (CGS)’ search for a new Upper School Head came to a close with the selection of Derek Kanarek, who will officially step into the role on July 1, 2025. Kanarek, who has served as Interim Head of the Upper School this school year, was selected for the position after a nearly year-long search process.

The search for a new Head began in March of 2024 when Aline Garcia-Rubio stepped down after seven years as Upper School Head. Kanarek was appointed Interim Head for the 2024-2025 school year while the administration conducted a formal search.

In June, the school announced it had selected Carney Sandoe & Associates to assist with the process after reviewing proposals from four search firms. “We selected [Carney Sandoe & Associates] because of their alignment with Catlin’s values, especially in terms of our educational philosophy,” shared Kama Bruce, Assistant Head of School and leader of the search committee.

The firm visited campus in Sept. to gather input from the students, faculty, and families before drafting a detailed position description. From there, the committee identified potential candidates and began the selection process.

According to Bruce, the search committee started with a list of 15 candidates, narrowed it down to 11 semifinalists, and ultimately selected three finalists. The committee prioritized finding a self-aware, open-minded leader who could foster collaboration, adapt to feedback, and guide the school’s growth. “You want somebody who is going to be strong, not only with vision but also with execution,” said Bruce.

The committee sought candidates with significant classroom experience and background in junior administrative roles (e.g., Dean of Students or DEI Director). Additionally, Bruce noted that they looked for applicants with a “firm understanding of progressive pedagogy and curriculum.” Emotional intelligence was another key factor, as the role required engaging with students, faculty, and families in meaningful ways.

The search committee wanted someone heavily invested in students’ well-being and committed to fostering a challenging, supportive, and inclusive environment.

After selecting the semi-finalist candidates, the search committee hand-picked and interviewed candidates carefully. They worked hard to ensure a fair and equitable selection process by using a standardized interview protocol and prioritizing anti-bias measures while interviewing candidates.

Students and families were also encouraged to stay involved in the search process by sharing feedback, attending meetings, and engaging in conversations with the school about the candidates. “We want everyone’s voices to be heard,” said Bruce. “The next Upper School Head will be a key part of our community, and it’s essential we get it right.”

Student involvement specifically was central to the process, with CGSA members meeting candidates and providing feedback to the search committee. “Student input is huge,” said Bruce. “Teenagers are great at spotting authenticity. They can tell when someone is in it for the right reasons, and we take that feedback into serious consideration.”

Upper School students had the opportunity to engage with candidates during morning Co-Cu assemblies, where finalists shared their leadership philosophy and answered student questions. CGSA students participated in additional lunch and Co-Cu meetings, providing their own specific feedback to the search committee. “It was nice to both get to know the candidates at more of a personal level and be able to actually provide that feedback to the administrators,” said junior CGSA Secretary, Scarlett Keys.

After 11 semi-finalist interviews, the committee selected three finalists: Shannon Rush, Derek Kanarek, and Kevin Campbell.

The candidates provided resumes that highlighted their backgrounds and expertise.

Rush, the current Interim CGS Upper School Academic Dean, is an experienced education leader with extensive knowledge in curriculum development, educational leadership, and student-centered learning strategies. Her experience includes spearheading initiatives to improve academic programs and equity practices in diverse school environments. Rush is passionate about fostering inclusive learning communities and emphasizes collaboration and empathy in her leadership style.

Kanarek, the current Interim CGS Upper School Head, has over 20 years of experience in progressive education, with a background in academic leadership, coaching teachers, and curriculum innovation. He holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Columbia University and is currently serving as interim Upper School Head, a position where he emphasizes equity, relational leadership, and competency-based education.

Campbell, the Upper School Head of a small Idaho private school, is a school administrator with expertise in grading policy reform, equity and inclusion initiatives, and social-emotional learning programs. His leadership approach focuses on collaboration, innovation, and fostering positive school cultures in ideologically diverse communities. Drawing from his experience as a history teacher and DEI advocate, Campbell promotes experiential and relationship-centered learning as a foundation for transformative education.

After interviewing the finalists and gathering feedback from students, faculty, and families, the search committee made a final recommendation to the Head of School, Tim Bazemore, who confirmed the hiring decision. “This is the most important thing we do as a school–hiring people who will help students thrive,” said Bruce.

On Feb. 19, 2025, the school officially announced Kanarek’s selection as permanent Upper School Head. According to a school-wide announcement email sent out by Tim Bazemore, he was chosen for his “thoughtful and empathetic leadership” as well as his “deep understanding of the school’s culture and operations.” In particular, faculty, parents, and students were impressed by Kanarek’s ability to build relationships, provide clarity in leadership, and inspire confidence in the school’s future.

Now, as he prepares to assume the permanent role, Kanarek will continue shaping the Upper School’s vision while focusing on collaboration, student well-being, and progressive education initiatives. “I am honored and humbled to serve the Upper School as its next Head,” he said in the school-wide email. “I look forward to continuing our work together and writing the next chapter of Catlin Gabel’s Upper School.”

This article was updated March 17, 2025 to replace the image with one that better fits the context of the piece.

Catlin NewsAnn CrosbyMarch 12, 2025Comment