Montessori Hale O Keiki Welcomes New Head of School

Montessori Hale O Keiki announced Judy Beneventi as the new interim Head of School. She replaces former head-of-school Jessica Thompson, who recently moved to the mainland after serving the school for many years.

The school said the interim Head of School selection process was extensive, and Beneventi comes to MHOK with an outstanding background in education. Photo Courtesy

Beneventi joined the MHOK team on July 1, 2017 after leading the early childhood program at the American School in Japan in Tokyo where she also served as Assistant Principal at ASIJ’s Elementary School.

Her background in education also includes working as a Curriculum Coordinator, Middle School Teacher and Elementary Teacher at St. Mary’s International School in Tokyo; Middle School teacher in both Lima, Peru, and Helena, MT; she also spent two years as an elementary school teacher in Morwell, Victoria, Australia.

“I have big slippers to fill and will do my best to provide a smooth leadership transition,” says Beneventi. “I want to support all parents in your all-important task of raising your children to become competent, responsible, considerate, and generous. I am looking forward to a wonderful year.”

MHOK has been on Maui for more than 27 years and serves students from preschool through 8th grade, with a curriculum that embraces hands-on learning, engagement and independence; and programs that include music, physical education, art, environmental science and marine stewardship.

Montessori Hale O Keiki was awarded triple accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Hawai’i Association of Independent Schools and the American Montessori Society. This year, the school received a seven-year term of accreditation, a first in the school’s history.

The upcoming school year begins Monday, Aug. 14, 2017.