Meet the Head of Middle and Upper Schools

Welcome to the Upper School at Manlius Pebble Hill!

It’s an exciting moment at MPH as we recently welcomed Pat Bentley Hoke into the role of Head of Middle and Upper Schools. A longstanding and deeply respected member of our faculty, Pat has taught English, coached varsity soccer, and guided countless students through some of their most formative years. Her own children graduated from MPH—giving her the meaningful perspective of experiencing this community as both teacher and parent. The MPH community is truly thrilled to have her leading the Upper and Middle Schools.

Here at MPH, students develop ideas into worldviews, classmates become lifelong friends, and teachers inspire passion and purpose. Pat brings a clear vision rooted in her decades of classroom and extra-curricular experience and her unwavering commitment to creating a school experience in which young people thrive. She sees three essential elements at the heart of a transformative education—each one embedded deeply into our Upper School program:

Enthusiastic and Innovative Teachers

Students fall in love with learning when they are led by teachers who are passionate, knowledgeable, and endlessly creative. In the Upper School, faculty intentionally spark curiosity—designing conversations and experiences that spill out of the classroom, into hallways, carpools, and dinner-table discussions. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and it’s reflected in the energy students bring to their day.

Supportive Expectations

Growth happens when students are challenged in meaningful ways while feeling supported every step of the journey. Pat is committed to fostering an environment where high standards and genuine care go hand in hand. At MPH, students know it’s safe to take risks, to stretch themselves, and to learn through trial, error, and triumph. They discover resilience not just as a skill, but as a mindset.

Freedom to Choose

Upper School students flourish when they have ownership over their learning. With a strong liberal arts foundation in 9th and 10th grade, students build the tools they need to explore more specialized interests in 11th and 12th grade. Electives, independent projects, and advanced coursework empower them to shape a path that reflects who they are—and who they’re becoming. This freedom cultivates thinkers, makers, problem-solvers, and leaders.

At MPH, we value partnership, we nurture belonging, and we celebrate the whole child. Pat’s leadership reinforces our commitment to helping students become confident, compassionate, and capable young adults—prepared not only for college, but for life.

Warm regards,

Pat Bentley Hoke
Head of Middle and Upper Schools