Announcing Odyssey’s First Assistant Head of School and New Middle School Head
Odyssey is pleased to announce the appointment of Matt Cowan as Odyssey’s first Assistant Head of School.
Mr. Cowan has served as Odyssey’s Middle School Head since 2021. In his role, he has planned and coordinated school day structures and systems, spearheaded a renewed vision and structure for the professional growth of our faculty, actively participated in the admissions process, and much more. Mr. Cowan holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Marygrove College. In 2021, he earned a Certificate in School Management and Leadership from Harvard. Prior to joining Odyssey’s team, he served as the Assistant Head of School at Wye River Upper School, a school for students with learning differences in Centreville, Maryland. As an administrative leader, he has prioritized the promotion of a positive school culture and climate. He values thinking differently, teaching differently, and learning differently.
"Following an extensive search and interview process, we found that our ideal leader was already under our roof upholding Odyssey’s Four Pillars and serving as a guiding force in our students’ success," said Marty Sweeney, Odyssey's Head of School. "We thank Mr. Cowan for the important work he has done in our Middle School these past two years, and look forward to a successful future ahead."
Mr. Cowan shared, “For most of my educational career, I have sought out opportunities in which I could cultivate the academic growth and diverse strengths of students with learning differences. For that reason, I feel privileged to be part of the Odyssey community and to forward the school's mission.”
His appointment as Odyssey’s Assistant Head will be effective on July 1, 2023.
As Mr. Cowan transitions into the role of Assistant Head, we are fortunate to have experienced educator and dyslexia
advocate, Christine See join Odyssey as Middle School Head.
Ms. See recently served as the Director of Educational Technology & Curriculum Innovation at Jemicy School. She holds a Bachelor’s in English Literature, a Master’s in Instructional Technology, and is actively pursuing a Doctor of Education in Instructional Technology at Towson University. Ms. See is a strong advocate for students with dyslexia, serving as the Vice President of the Maryland chapter of the International Dyslexia Association.
"We are so fortunate to have Ms. See join our dynamic team. She is bright, talented, and thoroughly understands our children," said Sweeney. "We appreciate her passion for professional development, dyslexia education, and specialized instruction, and cannot wait for her to make an impact here at Odyssey."
In her Educational Philosophy Statement, Ms. See shared: “Education must be equitable, meaning that all students receive the necessary supports and resources to succeed, regardless of their background of circumstances." She will assume her role as Middle School Head beginning July 1, 2023. Odyssey will plan opportunities for her to meet with students and families before the school year begins in September.