VIMSIA Welcomes Gloria Arpasi as New Head of School
/Acclaimed School Introduces New Administrative Team in its 60th Year
The Board of Trustees of the Virgin Islands Montessori School & Peter Gruber International Academy (VIMSIA) is delighted to announce the appointment of Gloria Arpasi as the new Head of School, effective July 1, 2024.
Ms. Arpasi’s transition comes along with a number of new administrative moves prior to the 2024-2025 school year, including the additions of:
Ms. Kara Ebe Cook, Business Director
Mr. Christos Bardis, Finance Director
Ms. Melissa Bump, Human Resources Manager and Admissions Director
Mr. Vernon Araujo and Island Communications, as consultants supporting Marketing, Fundraising, and Events
Ms. Arpasi, a familiar face to the VIMSIA community, previously served as the Director of the Peter Gruber International Academy (PGIA) for the better part of two decades, from 2005-2022, and played a pivotal role in its founding and successful growth. She advanced her career at Whitby School in Greenwich, Connecticut, as Head of Middle School. Her return to VIMSIA marks an exciting new chapter for our institution.
In the new school year, the community will continue to receive steadfast service from Office Manager Ms. Kathy Huttel and Ms. Tiffany James, Assistant Office Manager. We also want to offer profound gratitude and appreciation to Ms. Peggy Hunt, our former Business Director who has begun her much-deserved retirement after 15+ years with the school.
About Gloria Arpasi
Gloria Arpasi holds a Master’s degree in Advanced Teaching and Leadership from the University of the People and a Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology/Education from the University of the Virgin Islands. During her tenure at Whitby School, Ms. Arpasi was instrumental in implementing innovative educational programs and enhancing the school’s reputation for academic excellence. Her leadership there was characterized by a commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Prior to her time at Whitby, Ms. Arpasi made significant contributions to VIMSIA as the Director of PGIA, where she was known for her collaborative approach and dedication to student success. Her deep understanding of VIMSIA’s mission and values, as well as her foundational role in establishing PGIA, positions her perfectly to lead our school into the future.
A New Chapter for VIMSIA
“We are thrilled to welcome Gloria Arpasi back to VIMSIA,” said Steve Tulk, President of the Board of Trustees. “Her extensive experience and dynamic approach to education will be invaluable as we continue to build on our school’s strong foundation and pursue new opportunities for growth and innovation.”
Ms. Arpasi expressed her enthusiasm about rejoining the VIMSIA community: “I am honored to return to VIMSIA in this new capacity. I look forward to working with our talented faculty, engaged parents, and bright students to further our shared vision of educational excellence and community service.”
Outgoing Head of School, Kevin McLean, shared his confidence in the new leadership: “I am glad to share that Gloria Arpasi will be stepping into the Head of School role. I had the pleasure of working with her in my role as Academic Director before becoming Head of School. Her deep history with VIMSIA as a parent, teacher, and PGIA Director will ease the transition and ensure continued success for our community.”
Gloria Arpasi’s Educational Philosophy
Gloria Arpasi’s educational leadership philosophy is grounded in empowering colleagues and students through genuine teaching and learning experiences. She believes in fostering a love for learning, collaboration, and proactive change, guided by respect, inclusion, and hard work. Her strategies focus on dynamic teamwork, student-centered learning, and maintaining high standards of excellence, while her leadership style emphasizes active listening, critical reflection, and bold action.
About VIMSIA
Virgin Islands Montessori School & Peter Gruber International Academy (VIMSIA) is dedicated to providing a transformative “Education for Life” through learning experiences combining the Montessori method with the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Located in St. Thomas, USVI, VIMSIA serves students from preschool through 12th grade, offering a rigorous and holistic education that prepares students to thrive in a global society. 2024 marks our 60th year serving VI communities including St. Thomas, St. John, and Water Island. VIMSIA is 100% solar powered with generators.
Our graduates have gone on to attend prestigious universities such as Harvard, Yale, Stanford, and MIT, reflecting the exceptional preparation they receive at VIMSIA. They excel not only academically, but also as compassionate and engaged global citizens.
VIMSIA is currently accepting applications at all levels. Enrollment spots are limited. Prospective families can contact our admissions staff, Ms. Kara Ebe Cook and Ms. Melissa Bump, at admissions@vimsia.org to arrange for a tour or to find out more about our programs, or explore our website at vimsia.org.