A Message on Leadership and Our Path Forward at The Odyssey School
From Odyssey's Board Chair, Matthew W. Hudson
Dear Odyssey Community,
I am writing to you today to share important news regarding the leadership of The Odyssey School. Recently, Dr. Timothy Lightman notified the Board of Trustees that he will be resigning as Head of School at the conclusion of the 2025-26 school year in order to be closer to his family. We accept and respect his decision. I know you will join me in extending to Dr. Lightman our appreciation for his service to The Odyssey School.
Announcing our Interim Head of School
To ensure a smooth and seamless transition, the Board of Trustees has unanimously appointed Laurie TerBeek as Interim Head of School, effective July 1, 2026. Laurie has been an integral part of the Odyssey community for the past twelve years, serving in her current role as Director of Development and Advancement. A familiar and trusted face, Laurie is well known by the entire Odyssey community. She embodies our school’s mission and culture and will be a steadfast champion for our faculty and students. Laurie is currently leading the school through the largest and most successful capital campaign in Odyssey’s history, supporting the school’s current expansion plans and ensuring the school’s continued financial strength and stability. The Board has the highest level of confidence in Laurie to serve in this capacity and to seamlessly lead us through this transition.
Strengthening our Academic Leadership
To further support Odyssey’s curriculum and academic programs, Bella Curran will be elevated to a newly created position of Academic Dean, effective July 1, 2026, in addition to her role as Head of Early Learning. In this role, Bella will take on additional oversight of matters involving the curriculum, professional development, and teacher training. Bella’s decade of dedication to Odyssey makes her an ideal champion of our school’s mission, culture, and Four Pillars.
Looking Forward with Enthusiasm
The Board of Trustees congratulates both Laurie and Bella on their new appointments. Our foremost priority remains unchanged: providing an exceptional, student-centered educational experience for our students. We are enthusiastic about the future of The Odyssey School and confident in this new leadership team, as well as in the exceptional educators and leaders who continue to serve our students every day. Additionally, we will be announcing opportunities for the community to connect with Laurie and Bella in their new roles soon. We look forward with enthusiasm to Odyssey’s future!
Sincerely,
Matthew W. Hudson
Chair, Board of Trustees
The Odyssey School