GSA names new head of school

Shelly Schildroth is a GSA alumna and longtime educational leader in Hancock County

May 20, 2026

By staff

Shelly Schildroth starts as GSA’s new head of school on July 1. Photo courtesy of GSA.

This story will be updated.

BLUE HILL—The George Stevens Academy Board of Trustees has announced the appointment of Shelly Schildroth as the school’s next Head of School. According to a press release, Schildroth, a GSA alumna and longtime educational leader in Hancock County, was recommended by the Head of School Search Committee following an “extensive search process.”

According to the release, Schildroth brings more than twenty years of experience in education, having served as a teacher, curriculum coordinator, principal, and most recently as Curriculum Director for RSU 24. Her leadership “reflects a strong commitment to academic excellence, faculty support, and student-centered decision-making,” the release said.

“We are confident that Shelly Schildroth possesses the experience, vision, and leadership necessary to guide George Stevens Academy successfully into its next chapter. Her appointment was the unanimous recommendation of the Board of Trustees,” said Deborah Ludlow, GSA’s board chair in the release.

The release said that Schildroth’s vision for GSA “emphasizes the importance of relationships as the foundation of a thriving school community, focusing on supporting students, empowering faculty, strengthening communication, and fostering meaningful partnerships with families and sending communities.”

“I am very excited to get started. My philosophy is centered on the belief that schools are strongest when students are known, valued, challenged, and inspired to pursue their individual strengths and aspirations. And, as a third-generation Eagle, this feels like a homecoming,” Schildroth said in the release.

According to the release, the search process included carefully considered feedback from faculty, staff, students, families, alumni, and community members. Schildroth's candidacy “consistently resonated with stakeholders who value strong leadership, authentic community connection, and a commitment to strengthening the traditions and future” of GSA, the release said.

Schildroth begins her role on July 1, 2026. Current Head of School, Dan Welch, departs at the end of June following a two-year tenure.