In response to the retirement of John Rouleau as Headmaster, CJ Spirito shares his thoughts and welcomes the new challenges he will face as the new Headmaster at Rock Point School.
Being a member of Rock Point School has always been a gift. Rock Point is a rewarding and energetic place to be. I feel excited to have been chosen to lead the school as we grow into the challenges ahead. I will bring the same labor of love, commitment and competency to my work as Headmaster, as I have to all of my work here so far.
I am looking forward to shifting my role at the school from working intensely with the people inside the school to learning more about and collaborating with the people outside of the school. It has been an honor and a whole lot of fun to work with John Rouleau and watch him build bridges with so many people. He has been a great mentor and friend. I am eager to keep learning from him and to keep strengthening the momentum that he has built.
In my 21 years here as a dorm parent, Dean of Students and Assistant Headmaster, I have learned that the Rock Point Community is much greater than just the people who live and work within the walls of the school. The parents of students, their other relatives and friends of Rock Point - former students, parishioners, educational consultants and other supporters from near and far all make up the tapestry of our extended community.
Rock Point will naturally continue to evolve as the times change, especially regarding technology; however, we will stay true to our core, which emphasizes growth based on human relationships. Living in a world full of technology may make building and maintaining in-person relationships more challenging for younger people. I want to maintain Rock Point School as a place where young people learn to interact confidently, respectfully and joyfully with others. We can do this by continuing to attract and retain high quality staff who find meaning in working here with the great students who come to Rock Point School.
I am enjoying the intensive work of this transition period and I am very much looking forward to coming to school as Headmaster on July 1, 2011. Every day the students surprise me, challenge me and impress me with their curious spirits and intense desire to make a positive life for themselves. I know that this will continue as I take on the role of Headmaster, and I welcome it.
CJ Spirito
Rock Point Schoolis a co-ed boarding school, with a small day program for students ages 14-19 and in grades 9 through 12, who have gotten off track both personally and academically. Rock Point School is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, is a member of the National Association of Episcopal Schools, the VT Independent Schools Association of Northern New England and the National Association of Independent Schools.