Meet the Head of Middle School
Dear MPH Families and Prospective Families,
It is a true honor to serve as Head of Middle and Upper Schools at Manlius Pebble Hill School. Having been part of this community for many years—as an English teacher, varsity soccer coach, advisor, and MPH parent—I have had the privilege of experiencing the school from multiple perspectives. I have watched students grow into thoughtful, confident young adults and have seen firsthand the power of a school culture rooted in relationships, curiosity, and purpose. I am grateful for the opportunity to help lead our Middle and Upper School students during these important and transformative years.
At MPH, the Middle and Upper School experience is both challenging and deeply supportive. These are the years when students begin to shape their ideas into worldviews, form lasting friendships, and discover passions that will guide them into adulthood. Our faculty know our students well—who they are as learners, collaborators, and individuals—and that understanding allows us to create an environment where each student can thrive.
I believe three essential elements lie at the heart of a transformative education, and each is central to our program:
Enthusiastic and Innovative Teachers
Students are inspired when they learn from teachers who are passionate about their subjects and committed to their growth. Our faculty design classes that spark curiosity, invite discussion, and extend beyond the classroom into daily life. Whether through literature, science labs, performances, athletic practices, or independent projects, our teachers bring energy and creativity that encourage students to engage deeply and think boldly.
Supportive Expectations
Adolescence is a time of tremendous growth, and students flourish when they are both challenged and supported. At MPH, we set high expectations while ensuring that students feel known, respected, and encouraged. We want our students to take intellectual and personal risks, to learn from setbacks, and to build resilience. In our Middle and Upper Schools, students discover that growth comes not only from success but from perseverance, reflection, and a willingness to try again.
Freedom to Choose
As students mature, they benefit from increasing ownership of their learning. In the Middle School, we help students develop strong academic habits, executive functioning skills, and a sense of responsibility for their work. In the Upper School, students build on this foundation with opportunities to explore advanced coursework, electives, leadership roles, and independent projects. This balance of structure and choice allows students to pursue their interests, discover new strengths, and shape a path that reflects who they are becoming.
At MPH, we value partnership with families, we nurture a strong sense of belonging, and we celebrate each student as a whole person. Our goal is to prepare young people not only for college, but for lives of purpose, integrity, and meaningful contribution. I look forward to partnering with you as we support your child’s growth and help them make the most of their time in our Middle and Upper Schools.
Warm regards,
Pat Bentley Hoke
Head of Middle and Upper Schools
“These are the years when students begin to shape their ideas into worldviews, form lasting friendships, and discover passions that will guide them into adulthood.”
Pat Bentley Hoke
Head of Middle and Upper Schools