James J. Hoye recently joined Hancock Day School as its new Head of School. Founded in 1953, Hancock Day School is a Savannah based independent school serving prekindergarten through eighth grade. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Independent Schools and is regionally recognized for its challenging curriculum with an early emphasis on reading, phonics, and math skills.

“Jim is an experienced, purposeful leader with a proven track record of success at independent schools,” said Hancock Day School Board of Trustees Chair Tori Chandler. “Our search committee and board of trustees were universally impressed with his passion for education, intellect, warmth, character, and record of achievement.  We are confident that Mr. Hoye is the leader to take our great school to new heights.”

Jim received his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of North Florida and his Bachelor of Arts in Education from Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Canada. His career in education began in the classrooms of Ontario, Canada, serving students in social studies, science and physical education.  In 1998, he joined Jacksonville’s Riverside Presbyterian Day School. During his tenure at Riverside, Jim assumed the role of Director of Curriculum and Student Services.  In 2008, Jim advanced further in leadership when he became the Assistant Head of Lower School at St. Andrew’s School in Boca Raton, FL. Jim most recently served as the Head of School for Good Shepherd Episcopal School in Tequesta, FL.

Mr. Hoye states, “I am honored and humbled to be chosen as the next head of school at Hancock Day. My family and I are absolutely thrilled to become part of the Hancock Day School community and residents of the beautiful city of Savannah. As soon as I stepped foot on the HDS campus, I could feel the warmth of the community and knew that this was going to be a place where people are committed towards the growth and development of students.”