After an extensive national search led by Educational Directions, we're thrilled to announce that Brian Padilla will join our community as the first Upper School Dean of Students, effective August 1, 2025.
This newly created role reflects Pike’s commitment to cultivating a student-centered Upper School experience. Reporting to the Head of Upper School, the Dean of Students will focus on student life and programming, with an emphasis on personal growth, community engagement, and a culture of respect, responsibility, and resilience. The position is non-administrative, allowing for a dedicated focus on the day-to-day experiences that shape student life.
Brian was selected from a strong pool of candidates, with four exceptional finalists visiting Pike in April. Faculty praised Brian’s “well-developed philosophy toward behavior support,” along with his thoughtful, collaborative nature and deep experience with restorative justice practices. Several members of the Pike community also noted the genuine, positive connections he made with students during his time on campus.
Brian comes to Pike from Fayerweather Street School in Cambridge, where he serves as Coordinator of Student Life and Assistant Director of Diversity & Equity, working with students in Pre-K through Grade 8. He describes his role as ensuring students feel seen and take responsibility for their actions, an approach that closely aligns with the vision for Pike’s new Upper School Dean of Students position. In addition to his work at Fayerweather, Brian has spent the past four summers as Dean of Students for the EXPLO Middle School Program in Greater Boston. Before that, he was a middle school social studies teacher and DEI Associate at The Fenn School in Concord.
Brian shares, “I am both honored and excited to join the Pike community as its first Dean of Students for the Upper School. During my visit, I was warmly welcomed by faculty, staff, and students. It was clear that Pike’s values of Authenticity, Intellectual Ambition, and Social Good are deeply embedded in both the classrooms and the culture. I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to help co-create a community that is welcoming and affirming for everyone.”
We look forward to welcoming Brian to Pike and to the meaningful contributions he will bring to our community!