New High School Principal Announcement

Dear Graded Community,

After four years of exemplary leadership, High School Principal Stuart Kent will be leaving Graded in June 2022. Stu will return to his home country of Australia to support aging family members. As a leader, Stu has fostered a strong sense of community in the High School — both among faculty and students. Through his tenure, Stu has led the faculty in elevating learning and has helped build a strong sense of belonging, purpose, autonomy, and motivation among students. A leader of great integrity, Stu has undertaken his role with diplomacy and kindness and leaves big shoes to fill.

To facilitate a comprehensive worldwide principal search, we contracted experienced educational recruitment agency Carney Sandoe and Associates.  I am pleased to announce that candidate Bryan Bordelon has accepted our offer to serve as Graded's next High School principal starting in the 2022-23 academic year.

Departing High School Principal Stuart Kent

Incoming High School Principal Bryan Bordelon

Bryan comes to us from Houston, Texas, where he currently serves as head of school at Sharpstown International School, an IB World School. Bryan's previous leadership roles include director of teaching and learning at Austin High School and principal at Mandarin Immersion Magnet School.

Bryan brings to Graded a passion for and commitment to students. Throughout the interview process, Bryan demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenging academic experiences students need in preparation for success in college and beyond. Embracing a student-centered philosophy, Bryan has worked throughout his career to ensure that his students are known and heard. 

Bryan grew up abroad, moving from country to country like many of our students. Moreover, as a former IB student himself, he holds a unique and valuable perspective on the life of an international student.

Bryan writes: 

"I am incredibly excited to be joining the Graded community in July 2022 and know my family shares my enthusiasm for the transition to São Paulo. When offered the position, I knew immediately I would be foolish not to accept! Each step in the process — getting to meet teachers, students, and parents — cemented my desire to be a part of a community that has been nothing but warm, welcoming, and encouraging along the way. I have especially appreciated the opportunity to ask questions of the most important constituents — the students! — and get honest feedback on where my focus needs to be over the next few years. Though I had the opportunity to meet many people throughout the process, a virtual introduction is a poor substitute for meeting in person. I am excited to visit Graded in the near future and meet with you face-to-face as I transition into the role. I know I have tremendous shoes to fill, and I look forward to earning your trust! My family and I cannot wait to explore everything that Graded, São Paulo, and Brazil have to offer!”

Bryan is eager to join the Graded community, and I know that you, too, will welcome him with open arms. Bryan will visit the Graded campus, most likely in March 2022, to begin the changeover process with Stu. Having the fortune to hire early for the upcoming academic year, we are well-positioned to support a smooth transition in High School leadership. We look forward to both honoring Stu's tenure and welcoming Bryan. 

With enthusiasm,

Richard Boerner
Superintendent