St. John’s Headmaster Stepping Down, Nationwide Search For Replacement Starting

SHREWSBURY, MA — The headmaster of Saint John's High School will step down at the end of the next school year after nearly a decade in charge of the Catholic boys' school.

Saint John's hired Alex Zequeira in 2016 after he served for five years as the leader and cofounder of the Nativity School, a Worcester middle school that's free to attend for underserved children. Zequeira will step down at Saint John's in June 2024.

A school spokesperson said Zequeira decided to depart after "reflective conversations with his family about their goals and aspirations in the coming years." The school's board of trustees will soon mount a nationwide search for his replacement that will take place over the next year.

"I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together and look forward to the final thirteen months of my time at the school continuing to focus on the growth and strategic vision set forth by our community. I have no doubt that the future holds even greater achievements for this remarkable institution," Zequeria said in a news release.

The school highlighted several of Zequeria's accomplishments during his time as headmaster, including completing the school's 2023-28 master plan, opening a middle school and reopening Saint John's during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Alex’s vision and dedication have propelled Saint John’s High School to new heights. His passion for educational excellence, coupled with his steadfast and deep commitment to the development of well-rounded young men, has had a profound impact on our students," Board of Trustees Chair Christopher Creed said in a news release. "We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Alex for his outstanding leadership and wish him and his family continued success."