Compass High School today announced the appointment of Amanda Morin as interim head of school, marking an exciting new chapter for the independent Bay Area high school serving neurodivergent learners.

Morin most recently served as Compass’s director of academic services, where she has led academic programming and worked closely with students, faculty and families to strengthen the school’s individualized, strengths-based approach to learning. She succeeds longtime Head of School Doug Killin, whose leadership helped establish Compass as a place where students are known, challenged and supported to reach their full potential.

Before joining Compass, Morin served as vice president of learning and knowledge at The Jed Foundation and held leadership roles at Understood.org, where she helped develop educational resources and professional learning opportunities used by educators and families nationwide. A certified teacher, she brings classroom experience and is the author of several books on education, including Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools. For more than two decades, she has partnered with schools and organizations to create learning environments where students experience belonging and thrive.

The Compass High School Board of Trustees said Morin’s appointment reflects confidence in both her leadership and the future of the school.

Anna Refuerzo, chair of the Compass High School Board of Trustees, said:

“Amanda brings an exceptional combination of educational leadership, national experience and a deep commitment to our mission. Over the past several months, the Board has worked closely with Amanda and Assistant Head of School Aimee Callahan as we’ve planned for the bright future of Compass. We have tremendous confidence in their leadership, their partnership and their shared commitment to our students and families. Our focus is on supporting Amanda and her team as they continue building on Compass’s strong foundation while leading the school into its next chapter.”

As Compass looks ahead, the school remains committed to providing an exceptional educational experience where students are challenged academically, develop confidence in themselves and experience a true sense of belonging.

That aspiration extends beyond our own campus. We believe our role is not simply to be an outstanding school but to be an active contributor to a stronger ecosystem of support for neurodivergent learners and the educators, families and organizations who champion them.

Morin said:

“Compass has always believed that students thrive when they’re understood, challenged, and supported as their authentic selves. That’s what drew me to this community, and it’s what inspires me every day. I’m honored by the Board’s confidence and excited to continue working alongside our faculty, staff, students, and families as we build on Compass’s strong foundation. I’m also looking forward to strengthening partnerships with schools and organizations that share our commitment to creating more opportunities for neurodivergent learners to thrive.”

As Compass enters this next chapter, its commitment remains unchanged: helping every student discover their strengths, build confidence, experience a true sense of belonging and prepare for success in college, careers and life.

About Compass High School

Compass High School is an independent high school in Belmont, California, dedicated to helping neurodivergent learners thrive. Compass provides a college-preparatory education where students are known, challenged and supported as individuals. Through a robust academic program, executive functioning support and a culture of belonging, Compass prepares students not only for college, but for meaningful, independent lives. The school also partners with educators, families and organizations throughout the Bay Area to advance understanding and support for neurodivergent learners. Learn more at www.compasshigh.org.

Media gallery

About The Author
Business Wire