Head of School

Mr. Dylan Deal was appointed Head of School in July of 2023 following an extensive nationwide search. He is an accomplished administrator in a large preschool through twelfth-grade school, an experienced educator, an award-winning coach, and a visionary leader eager to embrace St. Mark's traditions as it moves forward as a leader among Episcopal parish schools.

Originally from Atlanta, GA, Mr. Deal comes to St. Mark's from Moravian Academy in Bethlehem, PA, where he served as Director of the Merle-Smith Campus and Head of Upper School. Throughout his 21-year career, which includes stints at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School in Atlanta, GA and Bayside Academy in Daphne, AL, he has taught Religion and English, served as a Dean of Students, and coached baseball and softball. His most recent responsibilities as a Division Head included overseeing his division’s academic program, its extensive fine arts and athletics programs, and its facilities. Mr. Deal’s notable experience in senior leadership has prepared him well for promoting the St. Mark’s mission, building community, managing and embracing current faculty structures, engaging with the Board of Trustees, and, most importantly, caring for our students and families. 

Mr. Deal holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Religion from Davidson College, a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Certificate in School Management and Leadership from Harvard Business School.

Mr. Deal and his family are Episcopalians. He is married to the creative, thoughtful, and gracious Katie Arnold. They are parents to two delightful daughters, Larkin and Winnie, and a sweet mutt named Fern.