Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School Names
Justin Tesser as Next Head of School
Announcement: October 19, 2026
Effective: July 1, 2027
Dear Mirowitz Community,
With great enthusiasm and a full heart, I am honored to join Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School. Since moving back to St. Louis just over a year ago, re-engaging with the local Jewish community has been an absolute gift for my family and me.
More recently, through the interview process, I have had the pleasure of getting to know this extraordinary school and community. I’ve had the opportunity to meet with faculty, staff, board members, community leaders, past and present families, and alumni. Whether at casual coffee dates, formal interviews, conversations at shul, or quick chats in my own kids’ drop-off line, one theme has been remarkably consistent: Mirowitz is a sacred place where people instantly feel at home, including me. Each conversation has inspired me further and reaffirmed my commitment to joining this remarkable family. To everyone who has been a part of this process—thank you.
Mirowitz holds a unique and significant role in the Jewish community. It is far more than a school; it is an environment where students can be their truest selves, discover their passions, and see firsthand what happens when academic excellence happens alongside strong Jewish values and learning. I am thrilled to help Mirowitz continue its legacy of shaping future leaders—individuals grounded in Jewish values who will advocate for a more just and equitable world.
An excellent school beautifully balances a rigorous academic program with its core values and character education. They are intimately interwoven. When done well, schools—especially those that are pluralistic—create spaces where students learn to appreciate unique perspectives, feel comfortable taking risks, and understand the power of a productive hurdle, whether in a science lab, during Tefillah, or on the volleyball court.
Throughout this journey, I have met passionate teachers who are deeply committed to the art and science of teaching and learning. I’ve collaborated with administrators and staff members who are fiercely dedicated to the mission of Mirowitz and what is possible. And I’ve met with families who not only believe in what is already taking place, but are even more confident and eager for the next chapter ahead.
The list of what excites me is endless, but above all else, what stands out most is the people—all of you.
Your energy, embrace, and warm welcome have fueled me, and I am ready to give my full self to this incredibly important work. I am ready to listen, to learn, and to partner with you on the journey ahead. I’m excited to do this work together.
I am honored to join you as your next Head of School.
With gratitude and ruach,
Justin Tesser
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Dear Mirowitz Families, Friends, and Community,
It is with joy and a deep sense of calling that I step into the role of Interim Head of School at Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School.
In every conversation I’ve had with faculty, trustees, and community members so far, I’ve felt something rare and beautiful — a school grounded in its Jewish values, passionate about academic excellence, and most of all, committed to raising children who are compassionate, curious, and courageous. What stands out to me about Mirowitz is everyone’s keen sense of hope for the future and a welcome that has felt like the best hug I’ve ever received. These initial encounters will be in my heart throughout my tenure. It’s the kind of community every educator dreams of joining.
I come to Mirowitz with more than three decades of experience as a Head of School, educational leader, teacher, and consultant. But more than a résumé, what I bring is heart. I believe in listening closely. I believe in showing up. I believe in walking with people, not ahead or behind, but beside them, as we move toward what’s possible.
As a native Midwesterner who has worked in cities across the country, I’ve always been drawn to schools like Mirowitz that blend deep tradition with a bold, future-focused vision. Your trust in me during this moment of transition means everything. My promise is to honor the work that has come before me, to lead with integrity, and to cultivate a school environment where every child, family, and staff member feels seen and celebrated.
In the coming weeks, you’ll see me around — on campus, at carpool, at lunch, and on the sidelines. Please don’t hesitate to say hello, introduce yourself, or stop me for a conversation. My door (and my inbox) is open.
Together, we will continue to nurture something extraordinary here at Mirowitz.
With gratitude and excitement,
Brian Thomas
Interim Head of School
Mirowitz-JFed Press Release – 10-3-25