Nevada County, CA — The Sierra Academy of Expeditionary Learning (SAEL) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Amy Roehl as the school’s next Executive Director.
Amy Roehl brings more than 30 years of experience in education, with a distinguished career centered on experiential learning, leadership development, and cultivating strong, mission-driven school communities. Her work has consistently focused on creating environments where students are known, challenged, and supported to reach their full potential.
Most recently, Roehl served as Director of Programs for the Small School Districts’ Association, where she led statewide leadership initiatives and developed programs to support school leaders across California. Prior to that role, she was the Administrative Director at Peregrine School, where she oversaw operations, finance, and staff development while strengthening organizational systems and school culture.
Roehl’s connection to SAEL’s mission is both professional and deeply personal. In her application, she described SAEL as “not simply a school, but a promise… that all young people can rise to high expectations, do meaningful work, and grow into capable, compassionate leaders.” Her leadership philosophy closely aligns with SAEL’s core values of character, crew, and excellence, and her background in project-based and experiential learning makes her an exceptional fit for the community.
“As students are given opportunities to stretch, reflect, and take ownership of their learning, they begin to see themselves differently,” Roehl shared. “That shift—when a young person recognizes their own capacity—is what makes this work so meaningful. I’m honored to join a community that holds this belief and is deeply committed to it.”
The SAEL Board of Directors conducted a comprehensive search process, prioritizing a leader who could both honor the school’s strong foundation and guide it into its next phase of growth. Roehl stood out for her ability to build trust, develop people, and lead with both vision and care.
“We are confident that Amy’s leadership will strengthen SAEL’s mission and expand opportunities for students, staff, and families,” said the Board in a joint statement.
The SAEL community looks forward to welcoming Roehl and beginning this exciting new chapter under her leadership.
About Sierra Academy of Expeditionary Learning (SAEL)
SAEL is a tuition-free, college preparatory public charter high school that uses a project-based, hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to learning. While maintaining the same academic standards as other public schools, SAEL emphasizes relevance by connecting classroom learning to real-world applications through community partnerships, fieldwork, and service learning. Students engage deeply with content, produce high-quality work with authentic purpose, and explore multiple perspectives while developing critical thinking and strong character. As a small school grounded in EL Education, SAEL offers individualized attention and a collaborative “crew, not passengers” culture that promotes equity and belonging. All students complete A–G coursework and are supported in applying to college, while also being prepared to pursue a wide range of postsecondary pathways, including trade schools, the military, or gap year programs. SAEL graduates have been accepted to institutions such as UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UC Santa Cruz, Oberlin, Reed, Harvey Mudd, and many others.