Good Shepherd Episcopal School is excited to welcome their new Head of School!
The Good Shepherd Episcopal School Board of Trustees is delighted to announce Kathy Tappen as our next Head of School. This is a significant milestone in the history of our beloved school, and Kathy’s appointment signals a bright future for our community. Her remarkable combination of corporate expertise and educational passion uniquely equips her to lead Good Shepherd with vision, compassion, and strength.
Kathy’s career, transitioning from senior executive roles with the Martin Agency on high-profile businesses like Coca-Cola and GEICO to making a profound impact as an educator, highlights her versatility and dedication. Her strong leadership at institutions like St. Andrew’s School, where she advanced innovative curricula and technology integration, demonstrates her ability to drive growth while prioritizing the holistic development of students. As a fourth-grade teacher at Good Shepherd, Kathy has already shown her commitment to fostering a community that values curiosity, creativity, and academic excellence. Her deep understanding of Episcopal education ensures that our core values of equity, justice, inclusion, and community will continue to thrive.
The prospect of Kathy leading our school is energizing. Her exceptional communication skills and talent for cultivating meaningful relationships with students, families, and faculty align perfectly with our ethos. Kathy’s proven ability to foster collaborative environments and her experience mentoring teachers and understanding of the accreditation processes underscore her capacity to uphold and enhance our school's high standards. Kathy’s educational philosophy—which balances academic rigor with social-emotional development—deeply aligns with our values.
“I am humbled and deeply honored to accept the role of Head of School at Good Shepherd Episcopal School. The school’s emphasis on being rooted in community, strengthened by diversity, and inspired by possibility speaks profoundly to my values as an educator and leader. It is a testament to its commitment to nurturing well-rounded, compassionate, confident learners. I am eager to collaborate with all who make this community so special and build upon the school’s legacy of excellence and inclusivity. Together, we will continue to empower our students to explore their passions, celebrate their unique perspectives, and embrace the endless possibilities that lie ahead.”
As we face this exciting new chapter, Kathy’s leadership promises to be transformative. Her enthusiasm for learning, dedication to inclusivity, and ability to inspire those around her will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy at Good Shepherd Episcopal School. At the same time, Kathy’s knowledge of the Richmond community, her connections and fundraising experience, and her understanding of VAIS schools will represent GSES well. We look forward to all that Kathy will bring to our community.
Kathy will fulfill her role as the fourth-grade teacher at GSES for the remainder of the school year and will work with the Leadership Team to transition to her new position beginning on July 1, 2025.
Thank you for your support during the search process and for welcoming our new leader into this role. Best wishes to all of you for the upcoming holiday season and the new year!