Mark Brown is the founding principal of Headwaters Academy.  Previous to opening the Academy Mark worked as the Director of Innovation at Somersfield Academy in Bermuda.  In Mark’s eight years at Somersfield he and his students won numerous national awards and Mark’s brainchild, the Innovations Program, became recognized as the leading edge of progressive education on the island.  The Innovations Program works across subject disciplines in an authentic problem solving environment that challenges students to contribute to their community through their academic work.

Mark is a frequent speaker at teacher professional development events, including a keynote address “Beyond the Rhetoric: What Really Works in Math Instruction” to the Bermuda Education Network.  He has also presented to the International Boys’ School Coalition’s Annual Conference and recently completed a study as a member of an international research team studying the ‘Maker Movement’ in education.

Prior to joining Somersfield Academy Mark worked at a prominent Toronto independent school in Science and Physical Education.  He holds a Masters in Educational Leadership, is a primary education specialist, and has teaching experience ranging across school grades from JK-Grade 10.

Mark grew up in Flesherton, Ontario and spent his childhood roaming the Beaver Valley.  He is an active mountain biker, Ironman triathlete, and licensed pilot.  Before moving to Bermuda Mark coached in Hockey Canada’s Program of Excellence and is a Level III/IV certified coach.  Mark utilized his coaching experience in Bermuda by coaching cyclists, including the island’s national champion, and coaching the school’s robotics teams.  His robotics teams have qualified for the World Championships on two occasions with one of their appearances occurring in the first year that Mark implemented robotics at Somersfield Academy.

You can see a letter from Mark welcoming you to Headwaters Academy and outlining more of his vision in our ‘About’ section.