Following an extensive national search, Ranney School Head Dr. John Griffith announced the hiring of Dr. Pamela Long as the new Lower School Head.Dr. Long replaces Dr. Andrea Danial, who announced her retirement earlier this year.
“We are thrilled to have Pam join our Ranney family,” said Dr. Griffith. “She has a wonderful blend of classroom and leadership experience, with a focus on developing teachers and evaluating and growing curriculum and programs. These qualities are critical to supporting and enhancing our curricular initiatives and helping her in serving as a coach to our talented Lower School faculty. The range of Pam’s experience and leadership, which has tacked back and forth between independent and public schools, large and complex institutions and leadership in the classroom, should prepare her well for the work she will do at Ranney. Pam is an empathic listener, a collaborator and an energetic leader.”
Dr. Long earned her B.S. in elementary and kindergarten education from Penn State University, before earning her Master’s in education there as well. She earned a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte. Dr. Long also received a Graduate Certificate in school leadership from Appalachian State University.
Dr. Long’s career began as a first and fourth grade teacher in York, Pennsylvania for two years, before teaching third grade.
After serving in various roles, including child care director, special projects facilitator and continuing education facilitator, Dr. Long returned to the classroom to teach fourth grade before becoming a literacy teacher.
When she taught third grade at Providence Day School in North Carolina, Dr. Long chaired committees focused on curricular initiatives, while also serving as team leader and Lower School professional development coordinator.
At Union Day School, Dr. Long served as curriculum coordinator and then Head of School for two years. Most recently, she was an elementary math and science manager for District of Columbia Public Schools, where she supported 12 elementary schools.
“Throughout my career in education, I have strived to maintain strong connections with my students,” said Dr. Long. “I believe the perfect relationship between student and teacher is one built on open, honest communication, and mutual respect. Elementary school children need a learning environment that is safe and accepting, where they feel their input and involvement is encouraged and valued.”
An avid hiker and trail runner, Pam is eager to explore Monmouth County and the surrounding area with her husband, Kam, who is a career firefighter. They are both diehard Penn State fans after meeting there, have family and friends close to the Monmouth County area and are excited for this new chapter.
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