We are pleased to introduce our incoming Head of School, Mr. Tommy Blain, who will join us on July 1st at the start of our 2026 summer session.

Mr. Blain comes to AJC with experience as a Kindergarten Teacher, school leader, and educational consultant, with roots in Richmond and a career that has taken him from New Orleans classrooms to leading a KIPP school in Boston and supporting educators nationwide. His passion for AJC’s mission—to love, educate, and uplift students—is already clear in the way he has engaged with our community. Over the past several months, he has met one-on-one with every staff member, connected with families, and spent time with students—listening, answering questions, and learning what matters most to them. As he shared, “Stepping into this role is the honor of my life.”

We are deeply grateful for the leadership of Mike Maruca, whose legacy will continue to shape AJC in countless ways. At the same time, we look forward to Mr. Blain bringing his own energy to this role—grounded in humility and connection—while honoring the culture of warmth, good humor, and belonging Mike has so thoughtfully built.

 
Watch the video below to get to know Mr. Blain a bit more—including whether he’s willing to go the extra mile like Mr. Maruca always has (yes, that includes hopping in the dunk tank at this Saturday’s Spring Bash). As always, our doors are open—please stop by to meet him!