Dr. Tim Lightman will be the next head of The Odyssey School, effective July 1.
Following an extensive national search, the Odyssey Board of Trustees chose Lightman for his “exceptional leadership, deep expertise in education and commitment to supporting children with language-based learning differences”—the latter of which is the special focus of the Lutherville K-8 school, according to a news release.
Lightman had most recently served as The Shipley School’s head of school in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, for 12 years and also previously served as principal of Smith College Campus School, a K-6 independent laboratory school in Northampton, Massachusetts.
“Throughout his career, Tim has been a classroom teacher, curriculum consultant, higher education instructor and accreditation team member. He has developed Pre-K-12 policies, crisis management systems and strategic initiatives that have shaped school communities,” the news release states.
Lightman will be joining Odyssey during a critical time for the growth and development of the school and its programs. Odyssey is in the early stages of a capital campaign to fund an expansion to its campus and assist with financial aid and professional development.
Lightman says that from his first visit to campus, he could see it was a place that students with dyslexia and other learning differences could thrive.
“What struck me most was the sense of passion and joy that filled the school. The students were engaged, the teachers were deeply connected to them and there was an undeniable sense of belonging throughout the school,” he says in the news release. “My family and I feel truly honored and thrilled to be joining this remarkable school and community.”
