JACKSON, Wyo. — One of Jackson Hole’s most respected educational leaders is taking the helm at Mountain Academy’s Jackson Campus. Chris Bessonette steps into his new role as Head of School with decades of experience, a deep connection to the community and a bold, place-based vision for the year ahead.
Bessonette received one of education’s highest honors, the Milken Educator Award, in 2019. He was later selected for a prestigious Fulbright Teacher Exchange award in 2023, spending part of 2024 in Taiwan studying bilingual education and further advancing his commitment to inclusive, global learning.
Known to many Jackson families for his long-standing leadership and student-centered approach, Bessonette brings a passion for innovative education. This has earned him a reputation as a thoughtful and forward-thinking educator.
“Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park are our classroom,” Bessonette said. “We live in a wondrous place, and at Mountain Academy, we take full advantage of that by immersing students in our community and natural environment.”
His vision builds on Mountain Academy’s commitment to small class sizes, personalized learning, and tight-knit, school-family partnerships, with a renewed focus on building global competencies and inspiring students to be active participants in their world.
Mountain Academy’s approach under Bessonette’s leadership will emphasize:
- Inspiring curiosity – Encouraging students to ask big questions and explore their surroundings through inquiry-based learning.
- Connecting academics to real-world challenges – Leveraging the school’s Journeys program and community partnerships to ground content in relevant, hands-on experiences.
- Considering multiple perspectives – Bringing in guest speakers, venturing into the community, and using the unique resources of Teton Science Schools to deepen understanding.
- Taking action – Empowering students to create solutions that benefit their communities and environment.
“Chris brings unbelievable experience to place-based education, and I’m thrilled to have him at the helm of Mountain Academy Jackson Campus” said Executive Director Wayne Turner.
As the 2025–26 school year begins, Mountain Academy continues to inspire students to think critically, act thoughtfully and learn from the place they call home, under the guidance of a local leader who knows the power of that place better than most.
