Head of School

After graduating from the University of Miami with an English degree, Sarah Kemeness began her teaching career at Palmer Trinity. Throughout her 13-year tenure, she held various positions, including Middle and Upper School English teacher, Dean of Students, and her favorite—varsity soccer coach. She left Palmer Trinity in 2009 to join Lake Mary Preparatory as Head of Upper School, where her responsibilities included managing 34 faculty members and overseeing 240 students in grades 9-12. She is also credited with creating the Middle and Upper School Advisory Program, co-authoring the school’s curriculum guide, and revamping the Advanced Placement enrollment process, which included a robust selection of courses. In support of graduating seniors, she developed a new elective program with courses such as Intro to Marketing and Intro to Law to help guide their college degree selection. 

After spending nearly six years in Central Florida, Sarah found her way back to the coast as the Head of Upper School at Palm Beach Day Academy. In this role, she was responsible for 41 faculty members and 235 students in Grades 4-9. Additionally, she created and implemented leadership team instructional observations and redesigned the faculty evaluation process. Furthermore, she was instrumental in guiding students through the secondary school process and supporting the admissions department in welcoming new families. 

Originally from Long Island, New York, Sarah earned her Master's in Educational Administration from Florida International University. When not spending time with the St. Thomas Tigers, she can be found cheering for the Hurricanes or trying out new restaurants.