Barnstable Academy Appoints Doctoral Candidate as New Head of School
Veteran Educator to Lead Local Private School
Laura Merkle
Oakland, NJ, Sept. 13, 2012—First year students at Barnstable Academy aren’t the only ones getting acclimated to a new school environment this year. Earlier this month, the Academy’s newly appointed Head of School, Laura Merkle, began her first year at the Oakland-based private school with a personalized touch to education.
Merkle has spent the last 22 years in the field of education. Prior to becoming a school administrator, she spent several years in the classroom, beginning her career as a middle and high school teacher before becoming the interim dean at the prestigious Kent Place School in Summit, New Jersey.
Merkle is a New Jersey certified School Principal and holds accreditations as Supervisor, Teacher of the Handicapped, Teacher of English, Teacher of Speech Arts and Dramatics and Elementary School Teacher. She is also an ABD doctorate student at Seton Hall University and is expected to receive her Doctorate of Educational Administration before the year ends.
In addition to her extensive teaching and administrative background, Merkle is a certified EMT-B for the State of New Jersey and regularly volunteers for the ambulance corp.
“Starting the school year with Laura at the helm is an exciting time for Barnstable Academy staff, teachers, and students,” said Executive Director Lizanne Coyne. “Laura’s vast experience in educational leadership as well as the classroom gives her a seasoned and well-rounded perspective that will be invaluable to the Academy. We’re eager to absorb the fresh ideas and leadership style she brings to the table.”
Barnstable Academy opened its doors last week for the 2012/2013 school year. For more information about the school, visit www.barnstableacademy.com or call 201-651-0200.