Saratoga Independent School Names New Head of School, Kristen Mariotti

The Board of Trustees at Saratoga Independent School has announced the next Head of School. Following a thoughtful, inclusive, and comprehensive national search, Kristen Mariotti has been appointed to lead Saratoga Independent School effective July 1st, 2026. 

“As SIS looks ahead, we’re excited about the energy and ideas Kristen brings,” said Michael Buckley, SIS Board of Trustees President. “She will build on what already makes SIS strong while helping us continue to improve how we teach, support every student, and stay connected as a community. We’re confident that, with her leadership, SIS will remain a place where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed. We also want to thank our current Head of School, Bob Ahrens, for his leadership at SIS. His commitment and stewardship have helped shape the school into the community it is today.” 

Kristen brings nearly three decades of distinguished leadership in independent schools, with deep expertise in enrollment management and community building, and a steadfast commitment to equity, student growth, and mission-driven education.  Kristen holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Southern Connecticut State University, a K-8 Teaching Certification from Prescott College, and a Masters of Education in Independent School Leadership from George Mason University. 

For the past five years, Kristen has served as Head of Enrollment Management at Emma Willard School in Troy, NY. In this role, she oversaw admissions, financial aid, and enrollment strategy and served as a key member of the senior leadership team. She partnered closely with school leadership and the Board across a range of areas, including marketing, development, communications, academics, and student life. 

 “I’m inspired and honored to join the Saratoga Independent School community,” Kristen said. “Great schools are built on authentic relationships, shared values, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential. I look forward to growing alongside students, families, and faculty in this next chapter.” 

Prior to Emma Willard, Kristen served as Assistant Head of School at Stoneleigh-Burnham School in Greenfield, MA, where she played a central role in strategic planning and operations. Throughout her leadership career, she has also been central in launching equity and inclusion initiatives and providing leadership development programs for students, faculty, and staff.  

Kristen is widely recognized as a leader in her field. In 2024, she received the Values & Vision in Leadership Award from the Association of Independent School Admission Professionals (AISAP). She currently serves as a Trustee at Cheshire Academy, an Advisory Council member for The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS), and as a faculty member and cohort leader for AISAP. She is also a mentor with the Enrollment Management Association (EMA).

Her work is defined by a collaborative spirit and a remarkable ability to connect with students, families, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Kristen’s leadership philosophy centers on cultivating school communities where every student feels known, valued, and supported.

“Beyond her extensive experience and education in independent school leadership, Kristen brings a wholehearted love of learning and an enthusiasm for growth and challenge,” Erica Fuller and Jayne Kirber, Search Committee Co-Chairs, Trustees said. “She is energetic, thoughtful, kind, and genuine, qualities that will serve SIS well in the years ahead. We are thrilled to welcome her to Saratoga Independent School and look forward to all that we will accomplish together.”