Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

LaGrange Academy announced Friday the hiring of a new head of school.

Dr. John Mehaffey has been appointed the new head of school, according to an email sent to parents by Brant Kelsey, chairman of the LaGrange Academy board. He will start July 1.

Mehaffey is taking over for head of school Brian Dolinger, who is leaving for another position.

“John is a highly experienced educator, having spent the last 12 years as a Head of School at Hooper Academy, Chambers Academy, and most recently at The Lakeside School in Eufaula, Alabama,” the email from Kelsey said. 

“Throughout his career, John has demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence, student well-being, school growth, and community engagement, and we are confident that he will continue to foster these values at our school. 

Mehaffey said he was excited to become a part of the LaGrange Academy family.

“I look forward to working with all stakeholders to continue to build upon the great success of The Academy,” Mehaffey said. 

“I am a student-centered educational leader, and after meeting with the student body, I was certain LaGrange Academy was the right place for me. I am thankful for the solid foundation on which Dr. Dolinger leaves The Academy and wish him well in his future endeavors.”

In the coming weeks, Mehaffey will be working closely with Dolinger to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of leadership.