Grigsby Takes the Baton

Dr. Merry Sorrells, Head of School during the 2024-2025 school year, announced at the end of the year that she would be stepping down from the Head of School position at the end of the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. In a surprising turn of events, the school newsletter announced in July that Sorrells has accepted the role of Associate Head of School and Interim Middle School Principal for the upcoming year. Terry Grigsby, originally scheduled to assume the role of Head of School at the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year, will now begin his leadership in the fall.

Grigsby, a Principia alum and former Navy Commander, served last year as the Associate Head of School for Enrollment Management & Residential Life. This fall, he’s taking the natural step up to Head of School. According to the newsletter, he has led the initiative to “revitalize” the boarding program, overseeing the discontinuation of Canfield House and the consolidation of the Boys and Girls dormitories into the Aron House facility. Principia Chief Executive Barbara Blackwell announced that the school is excited to welcome Grigsby as the new Head of School and is grateful for Sorrells’ dedication to the role. In taking the role, Grigsby said “I’m humbled to continue this legacy and excited for Principia’s bright future.”