Introducing our next Head of School

Dear Holy Child Community,

On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the Head of School Search Committee, we are delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Julia Maurer as the next Head of School for Connelly School of the Holy Child, effective July 1, 2026. This announcement follows a comprehensive and strategic search conducted in collaboration with our search consultants, DovetailED, which attracted top talent from across the country. The Board unanimously and enthusiastically approved the appointment of Dr. Maurer to lead Holy Child into its next chapter.

Dr. Maurer brings over 25 years of mission-driven leadership in independent school education. Her extensive experience and personal values align closely with the educational philosophy of our Foundress, Cornelia Connelly. Throughout her career, Dr. Maurer has demonstrated a strong commitment to promoting academic excellence, supporting faculty development, and creating exceptional student experiences. Her expertise in curriculum transformation, data-informed strategic planning, and board governance is supported by her identity as a practicing Catholic, drawn to educational communities that nurture young women of faith, conscience, and purpose. We are confident that her leadership will honor our heritage while advancing our mission to meet "the wants of the age."

Jessica Bieligk ’00, Trustee and Search Committee Chair, shared the committee's confidence in the appointment: "Throughout our search, Julia consistently distinguished herself as a visionary and authentic leader whose skills and spirit match the needs of Holy Child. She brings proven experience and infectious energy that will build on our school's successes and inspire our community with joy and purpose."

Dr. Maurer offered: “I am deeply honored to be named Head of School at Connelly School of the Holy Child. During my visit, I felt the strength of Holy Child’s mission in action.  I observed the joy of the students, the excellence of the faculty, and the spirit of care that shapes the daily life of the community. I am grateful for the warmth and welcome I received throughout the search process, and I look forward to partnering with this remarkable community to help Holy Child thrive as the very best version of itself, faithful to Cornelia Connelly’s vision and Holy Child's Catholic identity.  I am committed to listening well, leading with integrity, and working alongside students, faculty, staff, families, alumnae, and trustees to build on Holy Child’s positive momentum while remaining anchored in its mission. My family and I cannot wait to join the Holy Child Community this summer.”

As we embark on this new chapter, we are excited for Dr. Maurer’s leadership and for the opportunity to carry forward the rich legacy of Holy Child. Please join us in warmly welcoming Dr. Julia Maurer, her husband, Matt, and their children as they become part of our community. We look forward to the many ways the Maurer family will contribute to our shared mission and help shape a bright and inspiring future for Holy Child.

We are incredibly grateful to the Search Committee and the entire community for the thoughtful and enthusiastic way you embraced the search process. Your participation was essential, and we thank you for the care and commitment you brought to shaping the future leadership of Connelly School of the Holy Child.

Sincerely,
Jessica Bieligk '00, Vice Chair, Board of Trustees & Chair, Head of School Search Committee
Malcolm Marshall P'23 & '29, Chair, Board of Trustees