Richmond Friends School has chosen Rebekah “Becky” Dimick Eastman as its new Head of School starting in June.
Dimick Eastman currently lives in Richmond with her husband, Eric. Their two sons, Alex and Ted, both attended the independent Quaker school at 607 W. Main St. It opened in 1971 and currently serves preschoolers through eighth graders.
“As a parent and an educator, I have always been impressed with Richmond Friends School’s dedication to the whole child, which results in amazing outcomes for RFS students,” said Dimick Eastman in a news release. “I am excited to join this community that aligns so closely with what we know is good for children and is such a joyous place to be.”
Dimick Eastman attended Earlham College as an undergraduate and taught high school biology and math in Wisconsin before moving back to Richmond.
She earned a Master of Arts in Teaching from Brown University and a doctorate in Educational Studies from Ball State University.
Most recently, she taught courses such as Foundations of Education and Reading for Diverse Learners as a faculty member of Ball State after serving as director of graduate programs in education at Earlham College.
Alison Zajdel, board clerk, said RFS directors are delighted about their new leader.
“Her education and experience make her a perfect fit, and her love for this community is evident in the way she talks about Richmond and RFS’ future,” Zajdel said. “This special school is in good hands.”
Dimick Eastman replaces current Head of School Steve Cleaver, who is leaving in June to concentrate on his writing and yoga practice.
Cleaver served the school for nearly a decade as school coordinator and then head of school. Zajdel said his dedication to students was immense and felt deeply during his tenure.
A version of this article appeared in the May 15 2024 print edition of the Western Wayne News.