Newark Academy Names Tom Ashburn as its Next Head of School

Tom has a long tenure as a teacher and administrator at Newark Academy. After seven years as an Upper School English teacher, he has served as the Middle School Principal for 17 years. In this capacity, Tom has been instrumental in fostering a joyful and respectful school culture, leading initiatives that have expanded student enrollment, enhanced academic programs, and promoted diversity and inclusion. Newark Academy’s core values of a standard of excellence and a generosity of spirit have been at the heart of Tom’s work, and he is eager to contribute further to the school’s success as its next Head of School.

“I am incredibly humbled and honored to accept the role of Head of School at Newark Academy starting on July 1, 2025. It’s all the more meaningful to follow in the footsteps of the transformational leadership of Don Austin,” Tom says. “Newark Academy is a dynamic and distinguished school and I am committed to continuing to foster an environment where our students are inspired to grow, find joy, and embrace meaningful challenges. As I begin this new chapter, I am energized by the opportunity to lead such a strong, inclusive, and vibrant community. We will continue to live out our shared values and build relationships that help us learn and grow together. I am sincerely grateful for the trust placed in me and pledge to honor that trust through thoughtful leadership and dedication to the Academy’s mission.”

During his tenure at NA, Tom spearheaded numerous transformative initiatives in the Middle School, including the shift to experiential, skills-based learning, the development of comprehensive skill rubrics, and the introduction of Capstone Experiences. These efforts have elevated both academic rigor and personal growth opportunities for students. Tom is also deeply invested in supporting faculty and consistently promotes collaboration and innovation among his colleagues. He believes that building strong relationships with students, faculty, and parents is essential to fostering a thriving learning environment, and he has excelled in doing so throughout his career.

Tom’s leadership extends well beyond the Middle School program. He played a critical role in the planning, fundraising, design, and construction of the Wilf Middle School building and in revitalizing Newark Academy’s summer programs, which he helped grow into a vibrant and financially successful initiative. Additionally, as a key member of the Return-to-School Task Force during the pandemic, Tom worked diligently to ensure that students’ academic and emotional needs were met, maintaining continuity of learning during one of the most challenging times in the school’s history.

Tom grew up in New Hampshire and earned a B.A. in English from Marist College and an M.A. in Educational Leadership from the University of Saint Elizabeth. The emphasis of his study was servant leadership in middle and secondary education. Tom lives in Long Valley, NJ, with his wife, Stacy, and his three children, Matthew, Caitlin, and Brady.