The Deck House School
Edgecomb, Maine

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Tom Blackford Steps Down

(A letter from Tom Blackford to friends of The Deck House School)

After fifteen years at The Deck House School and seven as Headmaster, I have decided to step aside and make room for new leadership. I am very pleased to announce that Dr. Melinda Browne has been chosen for the position of Head of School effective June 5, 2011. Dr. Browne has been an important part of this school since she was hired to teach mathematics in 2000 and for the last six years has served as my Assistant Headmaster. I have enjoyed working with Melinda. As a team, we have steered the school through NEASC accreditation, the development of a financial aid program and economic ups and downs. Through it all, she has been an energetic and enthusiastic administrator, teacher and mentor for the boys. While I am sure I will miss many things about being Headmaster, I am excited about this transition. Melinda understands the unique nature of this school. She brings energy and a passion for the school's mission that will serve us well for years to come.

As for me, while I am leaving my position as Headmaster, I will continue to be involved with the school. I will now focus my efforts on building the school's relationships with educational and therapeutic professionals and friends of the school. I look forward to fostering the outside relationships that will allow us to continue our work with teenage boys here at the school. In my new role as Director of Marketing and Development, I look forward to spending more time letting you know about the great work we are doing here at The Deck House School.

The Deck House School is a small residential high school for boys who have had difficulties in more traditional academic settings. These are boys will benefit from being a member of a small and supportive learning community. The Deck House School is NEASC accredited and SEVIS approved.