The Californer - Tessellations Appoints Luthern Williams as Head of School

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CUPERTINO, Calif. - Californer -- Cupertino, CA — Tessellations School is pleased to announce the appointment of Luthern Williams as its next Head of School, effective July 1, 2025. The selection follows a nationwide search led by the Board of Directors.

This appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for Tessellations—one defined by bold vision, steady leadership, and a renewed commitment to its founding mission: empowering gifted young people to express themselves authentically and preparing them to help create a more equitable and sustainable world.

Since assuming the role of Acting Head of School in November 2024, Williams has guided Tessellations through a pivotal phase of its evolution—from an ambitious startup to a forward-looking institution reimagining gifted education for the 21st century. Under his leadership, the school has strengthened its academic model across all grade levels, refined its founding vision, and deepened community trust through transparency, collaboration, and care.

Equally impactful has been the sense of connection and purpose Williams brings to the school community.

"When I arrived at Tessellations, I felt something rare," said Williams. "I saw children who reminded me of my younger self—curious, passionate, and alive with questions. Unlike my own school experience, these students are embraced for who they are. Tessellations is a place where giftedness is not hidden or merely tolerated, but celebrated and nurtured. I accepted this role because I believe deeply in the mission and in our collective ability to build something enduring."

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A Harvard-trained educator with a longstanding commitment to creating inclusive and empowering learning environments, Williams brings both strategic clarity and a human-centered approach to leadership. His vision integrates Tessellations' whole-person philosophy with academic rigor, operational sustainability, and community partnership.

"This appointment gives our school the opportunity to build with intention," said Eugene Hung, Board Secretary and Chair of the Search Committee. "We are entering this next chapter not just with a leader—but with a partner, a builder, and a believer in the journey ahead."

As the school prepares to establish its permanent home in the years ahead, Williams will continue to center the needs of students. From Pre-K to High School, Tessellations learners are supported in thinking deeply, leading boldly, and expressing their full selves. This next chapter reaffirms Tessellations' role as one of the Bay Area's most innovative and nurturing schools for gifted learners—a place where gifted young people truly belong.

About Tessellations
Tessellations is a progressive, independent Pre-K to 12th Grade school located in Silicon Valley, California, founded on the belief that gifted learners deserve an education as multidimensional as they are. Through a whole-person approach that combines academic challenge with emotional and social development, Tessellations empowers students to confidently express their identities and pursue lives of purpose and meaning.

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With an intentionally low student-teacher ratio, students thrive in a project-based environment that emphasizes experiential learning, social justice, and outdoor education. Core academics are differentiated by readiness—particularly in math, where flexible groupings support accelerated learning. A robust visual and performing arts program, including music, drama, and fine arts, works in tandem with a comprehensive social-emotional curriculum to nurture the development of the whole child. Classes are held on our Main Campus in Cupertino and our dedicated Nature Campus.

For more information, visit https://tessellations.school.

Media Contact:
Tessellations Media Team
media@tessellations.school