By Keane Muraoka-Robertson

History teacher Karen Fukushima will become a middle school dean next fall, replacing current eighth grade dean Karen Wareham, who will return to working in the library. Head of School Jeanne Huybrechts announced the change Feb. 21 in an email to middle school students and faculty.

Fukushima will work with Middle School Dean John Kim.

“I think we are a good balance,” Fukushima said. “You want that balance between good cop-bad cop, and I think we’ve got that.”

Currently, Fukushima teaches two eighth grade and two ninth grade history classes and is a Student Council adviser. Next year, she will teach one history class. Since Fukushima found out she would be a dean, she has worked closely with Kim and Wareham to adjust to the new position.

“I’ve been sitting in on dean meetings and admission meetings for new ninth graders, so I’m already starting to transition and get to know the class and the job a little better,” Fukushima said. “Right now I’m in transition, learning the ropes before I officially take over in September.”

Fukushima believes her greatest challenge will be finding a balance between students, faculty and parents.

“I am looking forward to it,” Fukushima said. “I think it’s a challenge, but I think it is one that will be interesting.”