In January of 2025, The Baker Center, a national leader in children’s mental health, named John Kershaw, MEd, as Senior Director of the Manville School. As Senior Director, John oversees Manville’s day-to-day operations and leads the school’s management team. John’s role will allow him to shape the vision and future of Manville alongside The Baker Center’s Senior Leadership team and ensure all students receive the highest quality care.
“We are so happy to welcome John to our senior management team. John brings years of experience in special education and school leadership and will provide excellent leadership for the Manville School and our staff. We are lucky to have him as part of the Baker Center family!” said Robert P. Franks, Ph.D., President and CEO of The Baker Center.
John comes into the role of Senior Director with over 25 years of education experience across a range of different settings. He has held multiple leadership positions within the special education space, including Program Director at the Schwartz School, Director of Special Education at the Grace School, and Head of School for the Carter School.
"Stepping into the role of Senior Director of the Manville School, I find myself feeling optimistic about our students' futures. During my brief time in the position, I have seen a level of dedication and passion from our staff and caregivers to partner, for the betterment of the individual student. This level of cooperation coupled with the high level of experience from the Manville School staff encourages and inspires me to move Manville School towards a great future!" said John.
About The Baker Center for Children and Families
An affiliate of Harvard Medical School, The Baker Center for Children and Families is a nationally recognized mental health organization dedicated to improving the quality of mental health care for children (ages 2-22), families, and caregivers. Originally named Judge Baker Children’s Center, in honor of Harvey Humphrey Baker, the first judge appointed to the Boston Juvenile Court, the Center opened in 1917 and serves children and families of Greater Boston and the MetroWest region.
The Baker Center is dedicated to improving the lives of children and families by bridging the gap between science and practice to improve access to the highest quality care in community-based settings. Their life-changing mental health and special education programs include Center for Effective Therapy (CET), Manville School, Camp Baker, and Next Step: College Success & Independent Living.
Learn more about The Baker Center:
@bakercntr | bakercenter.org