Way back in July 2020, Mr. Faus succeeded interim head of school Mr. Tom Reid and made it his mission to build Benjamin up. He recounted first time on campus.
“I had these interactions with students, teachers, parents, and fellow administrators that day that just told me that Benjamin was a good place. There was a sort of happiness–though that sounds a little cliché–or maybe it was pride that could be felt around the whole campus and in everyone on it. It got me thinking about all the possibilities of what could be accomplished here.”
Mr. Faus has made many contributions toward Benjamin since then, including the expansion of our student body and our campuses. According to the 2019-2020 Academic Profile, there were 1,060 students enrolled that school year. There was a rise in enrollment levels from 20232024, and there are currently 1,321 students total. Mr. Faus handled the aftermath of COVID-19 with grace as a majority of students returned to campus in August 2020. Under Mr. Faus’s leadership, construction has started on both of our campuses.
“There will be many moments ahead to celebrate Mr. Faus and his remarkable impact on our community. For now, we look forward to two more years of his consistent leadership, his unwavering support of our mission, and his dedication to our students,” wrote board chair Mrs. Klein.
Mr. Faus’s retirement is scheduled for the conclusion of the 2026-2027 school year, but the search for his successor has already begun. Search agencies have recommended at least 18 months to find a new head of school, so that the next hiree has adequate time to give a year’s notice to his or her current school.
“Whenever there’s a change in a big organization, it’s always felt through the channels,” said Mrs. Badolati, “but he’s done a great job, so I’m sure whoever takes his place will learn a lot.”
On the topic of a successor, Mr. Faus commented: “I hope they’re someone who loves working with kids and is aligned with Benjamin’s mission, core values, and academic rigor. Someone with a vision–whatever it may be–for the future of the school.”
But this is only farewell, not goodbye. Mr. Faus plans on remaining an active member of the TBS community after his retirement, as a resource to the new head and as an out of school spokesman. Throughout his Benjamin career, Mr. Faus has cemented friendships with colleagues and students alike. He plans to carry
these bonds and their impact with him into the next chapter.
“I loved doing the carpool line at the lower school and just seeing these little kids jump out of the car, excited and saying good morning. I’m really going to miss the pace of the day to day school life, which seems so normal now,” Mr. Faus said.
It’s hard not to feel the quiet weight of transition, but the legacy Mr. Faus has built over the years will remain in classrooms, hallways, and car lines long after his retirement. This change is to be embraced with confidence– in the future Head of School and in the strength of the hope Mr. Faus has left us with.
