A Profound Legacy: Jerri Thompson Retires as St. George's Head of School

Celebrating 12 years of extraordinary stewardship

It’s not an exaggeration to say St. George’s would never be the school it is today without Jerri Thompson. Which is part of what made her retirement celebration at school on March 13, 2026 so special for so many individuals.

Jerri arrived at St. George’s in 2014 with three decades of Early Childhood Education experience and a bold vision. Guiding the organization forward after a turbulent period in the early 2010s, Jerri followed through decisively and impactfully. When the dust cleared, she had grounded the educational environment at St. George’s in a way the school hadn’t seen before.

From her unique curriculum materials to her long-term ambition to transform the outdoor spaces into the rich nature playgrounds they are today, Jerri’s determination stood out as she consistently brought extraordinary quality to St. George’s families.

Educating Those Who Educate Others

Motivated teachers from earlier chapters in Jerri’s career repeatedly followed her to the program.

Mari Vasquez joined St. George’s soon after Jerri, and ultimately stepped into the role of Educational Director. Rina Esparza built her confidence as a Lead Teacher while also earning an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood. Mary Jane Faz brought renowned quality to the infant education program, and even maintained her steady presence in the classroom while raising her own young triplets.

Under Jerri’s leadership, St. George’s staff members who pre-dated her involvement also leveled up in their careers. Cindy Bogle brought consistency and logistical excellence to the role of Registrar after working in virtually every staff position throughout two decades. Carmel Sweat earned an Associate’s Degree while working in the preschool program, and is closing in on her 20th year at St. George’s.

In all, more than five St. George’s teachers earned degrees under Jerri. As of this writing, three more were working toward programs from Certificate to Master’s levels.

Enriching our Campus and Community

Jerri’s top accomplishments in programs and infrastructure included NAEYC accreditation, the installation of the Beinecke Building, and the completion of the nature playgrounds.

Those are just a few of the stories Jerri helped inspire. On her retirement in spring 2026, long-term staff and community members reflected on her impact.

Jerri has influenced me in more ways than I can imagine – not just as a teacher, but as a human being. She has pushed my colleagues and I to think more independently, to build bonds within our group, and to communicate more effectively with parents.

Though I’m sad that she’s leaving, I’m also excited because I think change is important. It pushes you to grow and really embrace the challenges that go hand in hand with life.
infant Teacher Mary Jane Faz

Curricular Impact

Communication became a strong suit, thanks in part to Jerri’s Scope and Sequence and Companion Assessment Tools. These advanced materials strove to break down some of the traditional barriers between parents and ECE classrooms, answering “what are you actually teaching my child?”

The St. George’s team arranged to license these robust educational tools beyond Jerri’s retirement, and looks forward to continue utilizing them in the classroom.

The ‘Scope and Sequence’ helped me as a teacher by providing a clear roadmap of which skills to introduce at developmentally appropriate times. The Assessment tools allow me to present families and caregivers with a holistic view of a child’s development and progress, and to create individualized goals that support each child’s specific needs.
Toddler teacher rina esparza

Outdoor Learning Environment

Those needs are strongly supported not only in the St. George’s classroom, but by the nature playgrounds as well. Work on some features began in 2016, and a full overhaul was completed in 2023 thanks to an approach of networking and grant exploration by Jerri.

What’s special about St. George’s is both the sense of ‘communal responsibility’ and the layout of the school. We felt it was unique in that so much of the space is open-air … and since we’ve decided to send our kids there, we couldn’t be happier.
PARENT MARCUS SCHWARTZ

Building a Resilient Team

Continuity was a hallmark of the Thompson era at St. George’s. One reality of Early Childhood Education is staff turnover. Teaching young children is a high-stress job, and even at the highest pay scales, tenure requires commitment. As of this writing, St. George’s staff tenure exceeded six years – an unheard-of benchmark in the field.

Ever since I started at St. George’s in 2020, Jerri felt like more than a boss to me. She felt like a mother – like a mentor. She helped me set goals for myself and strengthen the activities I planned. It’s a lot of mixed emotions with her leaving, but I’m just glad I was able to learn under her care.
infant teacher christina sembrano

Influence at Every Level

Even brand new employees could sense the depth of Jerri’s stewardship – and could benefit from her techniques.

When I walk around this place, I see Jerri’s influence just about everywhere, and all her ideas coming to life. And although I’ve only known Jerri for less than a school year, it’s safe to say that she’s not only provided me with a lot of encouragement – she’s seen my capabilities and brought them to life. She’s such an inspiration and she’s great at what she does.
preschool teacher ella lington

That inspiration spilled generously over into the St. George’s parent community.

Over the past 10–15 years, Jerri has done an outstanding job growing and improving the school as director. They hold high standards for their teaching staff, who are truly exceptional and genuinely care about the children. I’ve been part of this community for 9 years and couldn’t imagine going anywhere else.
parent amber manzanilla

Jerri is unlike any other. She brings a lot of experience and knowledge to this facility and her door is always open. She’s always available to answer any questions I have about my children. For kids with extra needs — whether it’s therapy or additional support — the school goes above and beyond to create personalized plans and integrate those needs into their daily routine.
parent alyssa ferguson

As PTF President, I got the rare opportunity to work closely with Jerri for multiple years. For any disagreements we had, I have consistently appreciated her strength, kindness, and what she does for the school. I’m going to miss her greatly. I’ve cried more than once!
parent lydia stolper

A Continuing Legacy

St. George’s looks toward its next organizational era with a strong staff, a deep parent group, and a veteran interim leader in Stephanie O’Neal.

The school also enjoys the ongoing support of its church community, led by the Reverend Father Matt Boulter. Annual events like Blessing of the Backpacks, the annual Creation Care Fair, and ‘Tis the Season help unite the community.

At Jerri’s retirement celebration, I felt gratitude because of the love I felt in my heart from this community. Of course, the day was tinged with sadness. Jerri is going to be missed. But even more than that, I know in my heart that all will be well, and all manner of things will be well – because this community is so loving, that love will continue.
Rector fr. matt boulter