Interim Head of School
Kristen Tabun, EdD
Kristen brings over 30 years of experience in educational leadership in specialized independent schools. She has expertise in teaching, admissions, fundraising, and program development. Kristen's leadership emphasizes building strong relationships with faculty, staff, and families, listening intently, and communicating with transparency and authenticity.
Message to the community:
I am honored and excited to join Talk School as the interim Head of School. As we embark on this new chapter together, I want to express my admiration for the visionary leadership of Melinda Kotler. For more than two decades, Talk School has provided families with hope and students with skills to achieve greater independence. The foundation Melinda has built and the lives that have been transformed is nothing short of extraordinary.
With my 30 years of experience in specialized independent schools, I have seen the life-changing impact of a nurturing and experienced community. I am eager to bring this experience to Talk School and to work with our dedicated staff, students, and families. Together, I know we can build on the strong foundation Melinda has established to continue to change lives and create new opportunities for our students.
For more about the leadership transition, read our special announcement here: https://issuu.com/talkschool/docs/special_announcement
EDUCATION DIRECTOR
Sherri Newmark
Over the last 40 years, I have had the privilege of learning and growing simultaneously as the field of education/ special education developed over time. As research expanded and new perspectives evolved, I learned and applied unique methods which successfully increased student learning and engagement. Witnessing both the hopes and uncertainty facing professionals and family members preparing for the widening range of needs and supports, my role became more focused on providing teachers, university students across the Philadelphia area, and families with needed resources and training.
All of these experiences shaped my approach to program management as I moved into administrative roles; my commitment is to maximize the promise of change and growth. I have a strong belief in the ability of teachers to reach children through caring relationships and proactive, meaningful educational opportunities appropriate to their extraordinary selves. This is the greatest of privileges, to witness the process of change as students develop the trust in others, and then the faith in themselves, and ultimately the courage and strength to grow. I am grateful for every moment.
