Administrative Faculty

At Vermont Commons School, the administration supports and empowers teachers to fully engage students in their learning using 21st Century-teaching methodologies. Innovation is encouraged and educational philosophies that work are shared in regular meetings and online forums. Best practices for enhanced collaboration and professionalism are continually sought out in order to sustain a culture of community and excellence for students, teachers, parents, and alumni. Learn more about our administration below. You can also view our faculty and administration listed by department here.

Dexter Mahaffey

Head of School, African Studies Instructor - Appointed 2014

Ph.D. English, University of Louisville Learn more...

Jasmine Easter

Assistant Head of School, Math Instructor - Appointed 2008

B.A. Mathematics, Ithaca College Learn more...

Tim Harger

Dean of Students, Athletic Director, Health Instructor - Appointed 2019

M.A. in Private School Leadership, Columbia University Learn more...

Kat Nelson

Director of Admissions - Appointed 2022

M.Ed Educational Leadership, University of Vermont Learn more...

Sharon Panitch

Director of Development - Appointed 2022

B.A. in Music, Wesleyan University Learn more...

Linda Bursell

Business Manager - Appointed 2011

Certified Public Accountant (C.P.A.), B.S. Business, UVM, concentration in Accounting Learn more...

Katherine Bailey

Registrar - Appointed 2014

B.A. Liberal Arts, Concentrations in Visual Arts and Music, Bennington College Learn more...

Eliot Sloan

College Counselor - Appointed 2022

M.A., Bread Loaf School of English, Middlebury College M.F.A. in Creative Writing, The University of Arizona Learn more...

Courtney Lamontagne

Learning Specialist - Appointed 2019

M.Ed. in Education, University of Vermont Learn more...