Stephen Rubenacker Begins Role as Rosarian Academy’s Head of School
West Palm Beach, FL (PRWEB) August 26, 2015 -- Mr. Rubenacker joins Rosarian Academy from the prestigious Friends Academy on Long Island, New York, where he worked since 2001. Over his thirteen-year tenure, he taught 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Social Studies, coached various sports, and served as Principal of Middle School for ten years.
After graduating from St. John’s University with a Bachelor in Arts in History and Secondary Education, Mr. Rubenacker went on to receive his Masters of Education from Dowling College with a combined focus in Literacy and Special Education in grades K-12. In 2014, he participated in the Aspiring Heads Institute through the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). He has spoken at various conferences through the New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS) on educational technology. Mr. Rubenacker also served as a mentor for the Institute of New Teachers—an NYSAIS sponsored program.
The Head of School search began May 2014 when Principal Virginia Devine announced her retirement after serving Rosarian Academy for 31 years. The decision to hire Mr. Rubenacker ended an extensive and highly competitive process that included a pool of accomplished and inspiring candidates from all over the country.
“In a field of strong candidates, Steve had the combination of qualities we required: proven leadership, academic experience, sharp intellect, and, above all, a commitment to Rosarian to prepare our children to be leaders in academics, faith, arts, athletics and social responsibility,” said Andy O’Brien, Past Chairman of the Board of Directors. “He is a very good fit for our Rosarian family and leading our school on its strategic path. He understands our priorities for spiritual leadership and social responsibility.”
The Board unanimously recommended Mr. Rubenacker for the position, and the Adrian Dominican Sisters General Council approved the first-ever male as Head of the independent, Catholic school which has been an integral part of educating students in Palm Beach County for 90 years.
As Mr. Rubenacker leads Rosarian Academy at an important time in the school’s 90-year history, he commented:
“I am confident we will continue to strengthen the Rosarian tradition of excellence. I look forward to supporting a school culture where students are celebrated as individuals, understood as learners, and exposed to a wide variety of experiences in the midst of finding their passions and developing a broader understanding of their role in the world. It remains my belief that faith-based schools hold a distinct advantage in terms of the development of the whole person, something that is clearly aligned with twenty-first century instruction and pedagogy. That being said, Rosarian Academy is poised for a bright future, and I look forward to continuing its path of developing our school into one of the finest preK-8 schools in the country.”
Stephen Rubenacker and his wife, Kate, relocated to the Palm Beach area at the end of June and enrolled their two sons in Rosarian’s Lower School and Children's House programs. Mr. Rubenacker’s role as Head of School began July 1st.
Rosarian Academy, founded in 1925, educates students from early childhood through eighth grade and offers an exceptionally strong academic program enriched by athletics, visual and performing arts, and community service opportunities. The independent, Catholic school is located on Flagler Drive in downtown West Palm Beach and is sponsored by the Adrian Dominican Sisters. For more information, visit http://www.rosarian.org or call 561.832.5131.
Carey O'Donnell, O'Donnell Agency, http://www.rosarian.org/, +1 (561) 832-3231, [email protected]
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