Aliso Viejo, Ca - March 17, 2010 - St. Mary's School, the only Primary and Middle School in South Orange County to offer the International Baccalaureate program, announces the appointment of Walt Linaweaver as the new Head of Middle School for the 2010-2011 school year. After an international search involving more than 80 applicants, Mr. Linaweaver will become the school's second Head of Middle School. In this position, he will manage the Grade 6-8 teachers and staff, establish and facilitate procedures and guidelines, collaborate with the headmaster on instructional and curricular decisions, and assist with behavioral management strategies.

Mr. Linaweaver joins St. Mary's with more than twenty-five years of experience in education. He has spent the past sixteen years at St. Margaret's Episcopal School in San Juan Capistrano, where he currently serves as the Assistant Principal of the Upper/High School. Mr. Linaweaver holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from the University of Denver, a second B.A. in History from California State University, East Bay, and a Master of Arts in Education (with an emphasis on Curriculum and Instruction) from Chapman University.

"He brings a wealth of knowledge after having held numerous teaching, coaching and administrative posts in the independent school world," stated John O'Brien, Headmaster of St. Mary's. "The arrival of a leader of Walt Linaweaver's background and character to St. Mary's is yet another affirmation of the strength and reputation of our school."

"I am drawn to St. Mary's because of the people I have met and the sense of community that I have felt. I am also very much attracted to St. Mary's because of our mission focus on helping students develop into well-rounded, globally-aware citizens who are prepared and committed to leading and serving others. Finally, I am thrilled to join a school that has been personally touched by Father Sillers," stated Mr. Linaweaver.

A native of California, Mr. Linaweaver resides in Dana Point, with his wife Nancy, who is also a teacher, and son Luke, a Third Grader who enjoys nothing more than spending time with friends, playing soccer, and lacrosse.


About St. Mary's School:
St. Mary's School is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School dedicated to inquiry-based academic excellence, developing well-rounded, confident children who flourish in a creative environment founded on Christian values. As the only primary school in South Orange County to offer the IB program, the school promotes critical thinking while focusing on developing skills to meet the challenges of a global, technological environment. In addition to enjoying strong athletic programs, extended care, enrichment classes and summer programs, students in Preschool through Grade Eight develop the life-long practice of learning, leading and serving.

For more information on St. Mary's Preschool through Grade Eight curriculum or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, call (949) 448-9027 or visit the St. Mary's Web site at www.smaa.org.