Sarah Posti has been a dedicated member of The Campus Laboratory School (CLS) of Carlow University for nearly three decades. She spent 24 years as a beloved third grade teacher before transitioning into leadership as the Director of Curriculum and Assessment for two years. Now entering her fourth year as Head of School, Sarah brings a deep commitment to community, innovation, and lifelong learning to her role.

Sarah is also an adjunct professor at Carlow University, where she mentors pre-service educators through the Primary Practicum program. Her passion for education extends beyond the classroom—she has championed project-based learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and strong parent communication throughout her career.

During a casual conversation in her office, Sister Mary Paul Hickey, the founder of CLS, once told Sarah that she would one day be in her position—an encouraging moment that continues to inspire her leadership journey today.

Sarah holds both a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and a Master of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Pittsburgh. In 2023, she earned her Principal Certification from Carlow University, further strengthening her leadership and instructional expertise. She is also certified in a wide range of instructional practices including Orton-Gillingham and Wilson Reading.

Her leadership has helped CLS achieve Middle States Accreditation and MESA affiliation, while reviving school traditions and implementing forward-thinking initiatives such as the Middle School Mixed Age Group program.

As part of CLS’s service-oriented mission, Sarah now leads the 8th grade class on an annual Mission Trip to Philadelphia, providing students with meaningful opportunities to serve others and reflect on their role as compassionate leaders in the world. She also deepens her commitment to Mercy values as a Mercy Associate, aligning her professional work with a personal dedication to service, justice, and hospitality.

Sarah’s connection to CLS runs deep—not only as an educator and leader, but also as a parent. Her own children attended CLS, giving her a personal understanding of the school’s impact on students and families.

Each day, you’ll find Mrs. Posti outside welcoming students in the morning and seeing them off with a smile at the end of the day—a simple yet powerful reminder that relationships are at the heart of the CLS experience.

Education

Principal Certification 2023 Carlow University, Masters of Arts in Teaching 1992 University of Pittsburgh, Bachelors Degree Liberal Arts with a Minor in Theater, 1991.

Research Topics

Neurodiversity in the Classroom
• Supporting diverse cognitive profiles through strength-based approaches
• Building inclusive, identity-affirming classrooms that normalize neurological differences
• Creating safe, affirming spaces for students with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and anxiety

Dyslexia and Literacy Intervention
• Evidence-based reading interventions (Wilson, LETRS)
• Early identification and response systems within K–8 settings
• Closing the literacy gap through multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS)

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
• Embedding UDL principles into curriculum design schoolwide
• Promoting access, engagement, and representation for all learners
• Supporting teachers in designing lessons that remove barriers before they arise

Trauma-Informed Practices & Social-Emotional Learning
• Supporting a school culture where emotional regulation is taught and modeled
• Supporting students impacted by trauma through restorative and empathetic strategies
• Integrating SEL into academic content and daily routines
• Utilizing Responsive Classroom Trainings

Leadership for Inclusion
• Leading with empathy and equity in diverse learning environments
• Coaching educators toward inclusive mindset shifts and instructional practices
• Building systems that reflect the whole child philosophy across general and special education

Project-Based and Community-Rooted Learning
• Designing interdisciplinary, service-oriented projects that deepen academic learning
• Exploring how extended day programs can foster connection, creativity, and equity

Faith-Based Leadership in Inclusive School Models
• Merging spiritual mission with inclusive practice
• Exploring how mercy, justice, and dignity inform neurodiverse inclusion

Professional Awards and Recognition

Have written and recieved 2 safety grants for CLS. Written and received 2 MESA Grants for the Sister Mary Paul Educational Fund to provide scholarships for our students.