Principal Devan Ganeshananthan resigned from his position, effective in June, according to an email sent by Head of School Coreen Hester to the community Jan. 19.
Following the designation of an interim principal for the 2023-2024 school year, appointed Head of School Matthew Horvat will select a principal for the 2024-25 school year.
Assistant Principal Natalie Jaworski, who worked alongside Ganeshananthan for most of his tenure at the school, said his resignation presents a “fresh opportunity” for the High School, but it is simultaneously difficult to “say goodbye to someone we respect so much.”
“Any change in leadership is a lot,” Jaworksi said. “It’s a lot for us to think through, and there’s the sadness of someone that you really enjoy working with leaving, and then there’s wondering what’s next.”
Ganeshananthan – colloquially referred to as “Mr. G” by students – has served as the Principal for five years, assuming his role as an advisor in tandem.
Arthur Sadrian (’23) said Ganeshananthan’s departure is “saddening” and a significant transition for students.
“His presence in the High School has been comforting, knowing that someone so capable and someone so intelligent and thoughtful is at the wheel of our high school,” Sadrian said.
Moreover, Sadrian said the school will lose a “very good leader,” and thus, students are collectively disappointed to hear of his departure.
“Mr. G has inspired many of us, and it’s sad a thing to see him go,” Sadrian said. “What will live on is the fact that he’s taught us so much and kept our school inspired and interested in learning.”
His presence in the High School has been comforting, knowing that someone so capable and someone so intelligent and thoughtful is at the wheel of our high school.
— Arthur Sadrian ('23)
Gabi Dawson (’24), a member of Ganeshananthan’s advisory, said he has been the backbone of their experience in high school.
“He’s been a father figure to my advisory,” Dawson said. “My advisory wouldn’t work without Mr. G – we all come from different friend groups and we’re all very different people. He’s brought us together.”
Jaworksi said Ganeshananthan effectively led the transition to online learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic and bolstered the curriculum – namely establishing the Computer Science department and developing additional robotics opportunities.
“He thinks in terms of the entire school as a leader and makes sure he’s supporting all different areas,” Jaworski said.
Jaworski said she and Ganeshananthan have had a “very strong partnership” and share a “deep philosophical way of thinking about education” that allows them to continually challenge each other.
Beyond his overarching presence in the school, Sadrian said Ganeshananthan was particularly helpful in preparing him for college interviews.
“I was stressed out about college interviews and I was directed to Mr. G,” Sadrian said. “He was very nice and explained everything in a very candid tone. He was thoughtful and gave me a lot of advice and I ended up doing quite well in the interview because of it.”
Last year, Jaworski said Ganeshananthan organized for the administration to watch the show “Hamilton” together. Jaworski said Ganeshananthan’s strengths as a leader manifest in these community-building efforts.
“It was just a really great bonding experience for all of us,” Jaworksi said. “He’s incredibly generous in providing experiences like that to create a sense of team among the High School admin.”
He thinks in terms of the entire school as a leader and makes sure he’s supporting all different areas.
— Assistant Principal Natalie Jaworski
In the appointment of a new principal, Sadrian said he hopes the school secures a candidate “equally passionate” as Ganeshananthan.
“What’s most important is to see a principal who is committed to keeping students happy and to their success,” Sadrian said. “Whether they take Mr. G’s specific agenda on or not, it doesn’t matter.”
Dawson said students must remain “open to new ideas and new traditions” as the school undergoes a period of transitioning leadership.
Dawson said the incoming principal should foster a “sense of community” and prioritize close relationships with students.
“We should have someone that wants to get to know students and bring life into every part of the school day,” Dawson said.
Ultimately, Sadrian said Ganeshananthan has left a visible mark on the High School and ought to be recognized for his devotion to students.
“We all have those moments where we owe it to Mr. G,” Sadrian said. “He’s always there for the students when the students need him.”
