California Educator To Become Head Of Greenhills School

California educator to become head of Greenhills School

By CHONG W. PYEN

NEWS STAFF REPORTER 

J. Anthony Paulus, a Californian who doesn’t mind Michigan’s winters, will become head of Greenhills School of Ann Arbor July 1, succeeding David McDowell who will leave the independent college preparatory institution after 10 years.

McDowell submitted his resignation last May but will continue working as head of the 441-student school until June 30.

Paulus, 41, was picked by the board of trustees from a field of 61 applicants from 20 states and overseas, said Kirk Dodge, chairman of the search committee. Paulus visited Ann Arbor two days in December and three days earlier this month.

Paulus now heads the Menlo School in Atherton, Calif. A graduate of Stanford University with a master’s degree in education from Boston University, Paulus has 20 years of experience as a teacher and administrator in independent schools.

McDowell, who has served Greenhills since 1983, told the board he plans to pursue a new position at another independent school or a career with a non-profit organization. McDowell was out of town this week and could not be reached for comment by The News.

McDowell oversaw the school’s expansion from 300 students to 441 students. Dodge said the school’s academic program also strengthened during his tenure, particularly in science and math, while the school’s athletic and other extracurricular programs improved.

Paulus will be asked to augment the link between the middle and upper schools, said Dodge.

Founded 25 years ago, Greenhills serves students in grades six to 12, divided into a middle school and an upper school. The school also is known for installing no locks on student lockers as part of its ethics and trust education. Its annual tuition is $6,800.