David Holmes, executive director of the Lee Pesky Learning Center, has been named new "head of school" for the Community School in Sun Valley.
Holmes' selection as head of school, a position equivalent to principal, was announced Monday. The appointment becomes effective on July 1, when Holmes will replace Andy Jones-Wilkins, who has served as head of school for five years.
"We are thrilled to have David assume this role," said Jack Bunce, chairman of the school's board of directors. "He brings extensive experience in independent school leadership and has a proven track record in advancing the excellence and position of educational organizations. He has a deep passion for student learning, teaching and innovative educational programs."
Holmes lives with his wife, Toni, in Hailey. He has served as executive director of the Lee Pesky Learning Center, an Idaho nonprofit organization, since 2006.
The center is headquartered in Boise but has offices in Caldwell, Hailey and Ketchum.
Holmes said he spends about half his work time in the Boise area and the other half in the Wood River Valley.
The center specializes in helping adults and children overcome learning disabilities, provides specialized training for teachers, promotes early literacy and has a college aspiration program to prepare and motivate primary and secondary students for college.
Holmes is a graduate of Middlebury College and holds an M.A. in international relations from Columbia University and a Ph.D in educational administration from the University of Denver.
"I'll be working very closely with Andy, my good friend, during the transition," Holmes said. "The Community School is a remarkable school and a remarkable community and I'm very excited about working with faculty, parents, students and other friends of the school over the next several years."
Jones-Wilkins announced his upcoming resignation last July. He has not publicly stated why he is leaving, other than to say that he and his family are "ready for our next adventure."
Terry Smith: tsmith@mtexpress.com
David Holmes
