News Post

SJA Announces New Dean of Women

St. Joseph’s Academy has announced that Christina Myles has joined the administrative team in the role of dean of women. A self-described lifelong learner and teacher who leads through joy, Myles began her career as a high school math teacher in the Acadiana region and most recently served in several roles at Democracy Prep Public Schools in Baton Rouge, including as a teacher, grade-level leader, department chair and administrator. 

“We are looking forward to Christina becoming part of the SJA community,” said Principal Stacia Andricain. “She will bring passion, consistency and creativity to her new role, which will serve her well as she works to create solid interactions and relationships with students and the larger community.”

Myles graduated from Ohio University with degrees in mathematics and integrated mathematics/secondary education. She earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from the Teachers College of Columbia University.

Myles said she was especially attracted to SJA by the faith-based sisterhood that allows space for both strong traditions and innovation in the development of young women. “The programs and opportunities at SJA are all driven to ensure that graduates walk across the stage prepared to be world changers, and I am eager to be part of that process,” she said. “I am looking forward to meeting the amazing students, their families and the SJA faculty/staff family and working together as a network to help push the school’s mission and vision forward.”
 
Her various roles at Democracy Prep helped prepare Myles to join the administrative team at SJA. She embraces the importance of relationships as key to her success. “Students are more likely to engage with people they feel care about them as people first,” Myles said. “Taking the time to get to know each and every student by name and building personal connections as an administrator create an atmosphere based in trust. Schools should provide experiences for students and families where they feel seen, heard and valued.”

As a career-long educator, Myles said there is nothing more satisfying than seeing students experience an “aha moment,” increase their confidence levels or find their personal “why.” She considers it a privilege to help guide the daily learning of the students who will one day reshape our futures. “My personal educational philosophy is centered around the idea that everyone has their own way that they interact with content,” she said. “Finding what brings them joy is our journey as educators. Throughout my career, I’ve been able to see this flourish with intellectual, social-emotional and character development.” 
 
Myles said she looks forward to the start of the 2022-2023 academic year and the blessing of joining the SJA community. “Through consistency, engagement and love, I plan to contribute in ways which make this year one of our greatest,” she said. 

Mindy Brodhead Averitt
Communications Director

Photo courtesy of Christina Myles