The Odyssey School Welcomes Dr. Tim Lightman as Next Head of School
The Board of Trustees is thrilled to announce that Dr. Tim Lightman will become The Odyssey School’s next Head of School, beginning July 1, 2025. After an extensive national search, the Board unanimously selected Tim for his exceptional leadership, deep expertise in education, and commitment to supporting children with language-based learning differences through evidence-based teaching and community engagement.
Tim joins Odyssey from The Shipley School in Bryn Mawr, PA, where he has served as Head of Lower School since 2013. In this role, he has overseen all aspects of Shipley’s Lower School and its standalone campus, including hiring, faculty development, curriculum design, budgeting, and facility management. As a member of Shipley’s Central Admission Team, he has worked closely with enrollment, development, and neighboring communities to strengthen the school’s mission and outreach.
Prior to Shipley, Tim served as Principal of Smith College Campus School, a K-6 independent laboratory school in Northampton, MA, where he led 275 students and over 20 faculty and staff. In this role, he oversaw curriculum development, admissions, faculty hiring and evaluation, student well-being, and school operations while partnering with Smith College’s Education Department to support student teachers.
Throughout his career, Tim has been a classroom teacher, curriculum consultant, higher education instructor, and accreditation team member. He has developed PreK-12 policies, crisis management systems, and strategic initiatives that have shaped school communities. Collaboration, innovation, and a deep understanding of how children learn best mark his leadership.
Tim’s demonstrated decision-making and collaborative spirit will position our school for excellence in the years ahead and only amplify the great work and legacy that Marty leaves behind. He will join Odyssey at a time of tremendous growth and opportunity, as the early stages of our capital campaign have positioned us to expand our physical campus and bolster funds for financial aid and professional development. His leadership, vision, and passion for empowering students with dyslexia and related learning differences make him the perfect fit for The Odyssey School. In the coming months, we will provide opportunities for the community to connect with Tim and welcome him to Odyssey.
Reflecting on his appointment, Dr. Lightman shared, “From the moment I stepped onto campus, it was evident that Odyssey is an exceptional school where children with dyslexia and other language learning differences don’t just succeed academically but truly thrive. During my visit, I had the chance to meet with many members of the school community, chat with students across grades, sit in on tutoring sessions, and experience the energy of art and science classes, as well as an assembly. 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. My family and I feel truly honored and thrilled to be joining this remarkable school and community.”
We look forward to welcoming Tim and his wife, Jennifer, their daughter, Chloe, and their two dogs, Marley and Mo, to The Odyssey School community.