Sewickley Academy names Mark Shelley new Head of Middle School

Mark Shelley has been hired as Sewickley Academy’s new Head of Middle School, starting in July 2023.

“We conducted a nation-wide search and brought in several candidates to meet with faculty, staff, administrators, parents and students,” said Sewickley Academy Head of School Dr. Ashley Birtwell. “With Mark, the feedback received was overwhelmingly positive, noting in particular his warm personality, passion for education, breadth of experience, commitment to community building, and strong principles.”

Shelley is joining Sewickley Academy from Pittsburgh’s Environmental Charter School, where he has spent nearly two years as the executive director for academics for grades six-12.

He previously served as the supervisor of humanities at Princeton High School in New Jersey before becoming the principal at Princeton’s Riverside Elementary School.

As Head of Middle School at Sewickley Academy, Shelley will oversee the day-to-day operations of his division and further develop relationships among parents, students and faculty.

“We are confident Mark will make a positive and meaningful impact on our Middle School students, their families, and our faculty and staff,” said Associate Head of School Chris Anderson. “He will be a valuable addition to our community, and we are looking forward to welcoming him to campus this summer.”

Shelley graduated from Furman University in South Carolina, with a bachelor of arts in history and religion. He earned a master of education in student personnel services from the University of South Carolina. He also holds numerous certifications, including principal certificates in South Carolina, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Prior to moving into administration, Shelley taught social studies and humanities courses and coached both basketball and cross country.

His excitement to join Sewickley Academy is shared by his wife and four children.