Stewart Dorsey
Head of Lower School
I am proud to work at a school where each community member -- student, staff, or family member -- can be their authentic self. This allows us to do our best work: teaching, learning, and supporting the school community.
My career in education began at Blue Oak School in Napa, CA, where I taught Spanish, coached, and served as the Athletic Director. In the process I quickly discovered a passion for progressive education and fostering inclusive school communities. As a teacher I was inspired by getting to know my students deeply, fostering their love of learning, and supporting their growth both academically and socio-emotionally. Working with children in this way requires care and dedication, and supporting educators and families in positions of leadership became a passion as well.
I hold bachelor’s degrees in Philosophy and Spanish from Stanford University. I moved to New York to earn my master’s degree in Private School Leadership from Teachers College at Columbia University, and coming back to the Bay Area in 2011, I knew that the mission and diverse community of The San Francisco School were a wonderful match for my own values. I started as Preschool and Middle School Spanish teacher and then transitioned into roles in admissions, communications, and division leadership. SFS has been a wonderful place for me to grow professionally and personally. With my own two children here I am witnessing first hand the magic of a school that embraces each student and a community that shares deep values.
I hold Bachelor’s degrees in Philosophy and Spanish from Stanford University and a Master’s degree in Private School Leadership from Teachers College at Columbia University. In addition to my work at SFS, I have coordinated recruitment for the Klingenstein Program, taught in the Aim High Summer Program, and served on the Executive Board of the Bay Area Directors of Admission. Over the years, I have completed training in Responsive Classrooms, All Kinds of Minds, and Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling, and have enjoyed participating in several CAIS accreditation teams.