The New School announced the appointment of Will Tuttle as its next head of school, effective July 1. A seasoned educator and leader in progressive education, according to a news release, Tuttle brings nearly two decades of experience in independent schools, where he has been widely recognized for his commitment to student-centered learning, ethical leadership, and innovative academic programming.

“Tuttle joins The New School at a time of momentum and renewed vision,” school officials wrote in an email. “With his leadership, the school will continue to deepen its mission of fostering intellectual curiosity, social responsibility, and authentic engagement with the world.”

Tuttle has held a range of academic, leadership, and residential life roles in independent schools across New England. Most recently, he served at Thornton Academy in Saco, supporting both academic technology and residential life. Prior to that, he served at Cheverus High School in Portland as director of alumni relations and head coach of the varsity girls’ lacrosse team, where he successfully led community initiatives while mentoring student-athletes to personal and competitive success.

Tuttle also spent over a decade at The Fessenden School in West Newton, Massachusetts, where he taught history, coached multiple sports, and served as a dormitory head. His work in residential life included character education programs, faculty training, and strategic student life planning.

His appointment, according to the news release, “marks a powerful alignment with The New School’s core values: experiential learning, student voice, interdisciplinary curriculum, and a commitment to social justice. Tuttle is a passionate advocate for project-based learning and authentic assessment, and he brings a track record of building inclusive and purpose-driven learning communities.”

“I am honored and excited to lead The New School into its next chapter,” said Tuttle in an email. “This is a school that understands how education can transform lives — where curiosity is celebrated, community is cultivated, and students are empowered to make meaning in the world around them. I look forward to building on this strong foundation in partnership with faculty, families, students, and trustees.”

Tuttle is a graduate of Kennebunk High School and Phillips Exeter Academy and Nazareth University, where he earned a B.A. in history and competed in the NCAA Division III lacrosse national championship. Tuttle has taught a wide range of subjects — including history, English, and interdisciplinary studies — and his pedagogy is rooted in relationship-based learning, relevance, and real-world connection. He has presented on topics including residential life, character education, and student development at regional and national gatherings, and is known for his ability to balance innovation with academic rigor.

He lives in southern Maine with his wife, Courtney, an alumna of The New School (class of 2004), and their two children: Liam (11) and Hazel (7).