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Grace Yannakakis
Assistant Head of School at Riverbend School
Professional Background
Grace Yannakakis is a highly respected educator with an impressive career that spans over two decades. Her dedication to teaching and commitment to nurturing young minds has shaped her into a leader in the field of education. Currently, Grace serves as the Assistant Head of School at Riverbend School, where she brings her wealth of experience and innovative educational philosophies to foster an enriching learning environment.
Before taking on her role at Riverbend School, Grace made significant contributions at various esteemed educational institutions. Her remarkable journey includes positions such as Head of Lower School at Rumson Country Day School and Head of School at The Tidewater School. Her influence has been felt across these roles, where she not only managed school operations but also mentored educators and shaped curriculum decisions that catered to the holistic development of children. Additionally, she served as the Lower School Head at The Calverton School and Assistant Head of School at Green Hedges School, demonstrating her versatility and dedication to improving educational practices.
Grace's extensive experience also includes coordinating the Teacher Apprentice Program at Laurel School. This role allowed her to contribute to the professional growth of future educators, further showcasing her commitment to elevating the teaching profession. Through these various positions, Grace has cultivated a comprehensive understanding of educational leadership and management, positioning herself as a trusted figure in the academic community.
Education and Achievements
Grace Yannakakis's academic credentials are a testament to her passion for education and continuous improvement. She earned her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in French Language and Literature and Political Science from Syracuse University, laying a solid foundation for her love of learning and educational pursuit. Following this, she furthered her studies at the University of Washington, where she completed her Master of Arts (M.A.) in French Language and Literature. Grace's engagement with different cultures and languages has influenced her teaching philosophy, allowing her to introduce diverse perspectives into her classrooms.
Eager to expand her professional repertoire, Grace pursued an Ed.M. in Education Leadership from Teachers College of Columbia University. This advanced education equipped her with essential leadership skills necessary for implementing effective educational strategies and managing school operations efficiently. Furthermore, her studies in Nonprofit Management at the Mandel Center for Nonprofit Organizations (Case Western Reserve University) demonstrate her commitment to community engagement and her ability to navigate the intricacies of nonprofit work, a skill she effectively translates into her educational leadership roles.
In addition to her formal education, Grace is actively involved in community initiatives that reflect her deep commitment to empowering young girls and their communities. Her work with Girls on the Run has provided young girls with the confidence and skills necessary to face life's challenges and successfully navigate their personal journeys. Simultaneously, her involvement with Impact 100 Jersey Coast signifies her dedication to philanthropic efforts, working towards enriching the community and promoting programs aimed at social change.
Achievements
Grace’s career, marked by numerous achievements, reflects her unyielding commitment to education and community service. Under her leadership, schools have experienced growth in programmatic initiatives, increased student engagement, and strengthened partnerships with families and the community. These contributions have not only enhanced the learning environment but also promoted a culture of collaboration and support among educators.
Grace has successfully designed and implemented curriculums that prioritize both academic success and social-emotional development, demonstrating her belief in the importance of nurturing the whole child. Her ability to forge strong relationships with students, staff, and parents alike illustrates her cooperative spirit and passion for education. Grace’s noteworthy instructional leadership has fostered an atmosphere where innovation and creativity can thrive, resulting in positive educational outcomes.
In summary, Grace Yannakakis has built a distinguished career characterized by excellence in education, a commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments, and active community involvement. Her educational philosophy, grounded in her extensive academic background and real-world experience, continues to inspire students, educators, and the community at large. Grace's leadership and contributions to the field of education have undoubtedly left a lasting legacy that will resonate for years to come.