Head of School Transition
Our Sixth Head of School, Linda Hoopes
Over the past four years, our Assistant Head of School Linda Hoopes has become an indispensable part of our school’s leadership.
Linda has distinguished herself through exceptional leadership, insight, and dedication. She oversees daily operations and the student experience across K–8, supervises and evaluates faculty and staff, and collaborates with the Director of Curriculum and Instruction to ensure programmatic alignment and excellence. She also manages divisional budgets, supports facilities planning with the CFOO, and engages actively with the Board of Trustees, including monthly meetings and committee work. Over her time here, Linda has gained the trust and respect of faculty and staff, families, and the Board alike.
Prior to joining MP&MS, Linda spent 17 years at the Head-Royce School in Oakland, CA as a classroom teacher, 6th Grade Dean, and Middle School Head. She has also completed a wide range of professional development around equity-informed leadership, inclusive teaching practices, and organizational growth.
For these reasons, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to appoint Linda as the next Head of School, effective July 1, 2026.
Letter from Linda Hoopes
Dear Marin Primary & Middle School,
It is with great joy and humility that I step into the role of Head of School at Marin Primary & Middle School beginning in the 2026–27 school year. I am deeply grateful to the Board of Trustees for their confidence in me, and I am honored to lead this community forward at a time of optimism and tremendous opportunity for our school.
Over my three decades in education, I have worked in many schools, but I have never loved a school as much as I love this one. It is the kind of place that settles into the warm corners of your heart and makes you never want to leave. Now in my fourth year here, I know firsthand just how special MP&MS is. This is a school that proudly lives its mission every day. Walking the hallways, the joy of learning is palpable. The educators on this campus are deeply committed to honoring each child and seeing students as whole people capable of meaningful, deep learning. Visitors frequently remark that they can feel the joy and see that our students are building the connections that empower them to make a difference. That passion for lifelong learning and creating a positive impact is the gift of a lifetime.
Together as a community, we are poised to build upon this incredible foundation as we pursue innovations in our curricula, further clarify how our timeless values apply to an ever-shifting educational landscape, and expand our impact on the broader Bay Area.
In the weeks and months ahead, there will be important work to ensure this transition is seamless for everyone. We will share additional information with the community as plans are finalized. I also look forward to getting to know our community even better, especially our preschool families, with whom I have had fewer opportunities to connect in my current role. Please keep an eye out for upcoming opportunities to meet and engage together.
I want to extend my gratitude to Phil for his leadership over the past five years. I have truly appreciated working with him and know he is leaving the school in a stronger place than he found it. Phil and I will continue working together this spring to ensure the best experience for our students, parents/guardians, faculty, and staff.
There is vital work ahead, and I look forward to sharing more about our goals and initiatives for the school in the months to come. In the meantime, I want to again thank the Board of Trustees for placing their trust in me with such an important responsibility. We have a bright future together!
Sincerely,
Linda Hoopes