Head of School
Dr. Kristina Hansen

Dr. Kristina Hansen began her role as Southshire Head of School at the end of March 2025. Dr. Hansen brings with her nearly three decades of experience as an educator and leader deeply committed to student-centered, progressive education.

“I first and foremost consider myself a lifelong learner,” said Dr. Hansen. “Throughout my career, I’ve sought opportunities to enhance my practice and lead with purpose, always placing students at the heart of every decision.”

Dr. Hansen’s educational philosophy aligns powerfully with Southshire’s mission. She values interest-based, student-centered learning supported by an emergent curriculum. Southshire’s approach to honoring each child as an independent learner, thinker, and social being truly resonates with her educational approach.

Kris began her career teaching English in Connecticut before relocating to Bennington, Vermont, where she served for many years at Mount Anthony Union High School. Her experience spans traditional and alternative learning environments, always with a focus on inclusive, curiosity-driven education. 

In 2022, Dr. Hansen earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership, with research focused on the causes of teacher burnout and the roles of resilience and positivity in sustaining educator well-being. She is also a National Board Certified Teacher, a certified Strategic Instruction/Content Enhancement trainer through the University of Kansas Center for Research on Learning, and trained in Appreciative Inquiry—an approach that supports trust-building and organizational change through collaborative strengths-based practices.

Kris enjoys spending time with her family and her pets, and carving out time for her many hobbies, including reading, cooking, knitting, listening to podcasts, visiting museums, attending live music events and vinyl record collecting.