Meredith Ruffner has been named by St. Peter's Episcopal School to serve as interim head of school for the 2013-2014 academic year.
Donna Mallett, who was the previously named head, decided that the transition from her Atlanta home wasn't in her family's best interest, a news release said.
"We are thrilled that Meredith will lead St. Peter's next year," board Chairman Bill Winchester said. "Meredith is an outstanding teacher and has the respect and love of students, faculty, administrators and parents. She will be a warm and caring guide in our school and in our community."
Ruffner has been a teacher for 20 years, including 10 as a second-grade teacher at St. Peter's School.
She is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga who will complete her master's in educational leadership with a principal license in 2014.
Dr. Herb Barks, a former headmaster of Baylor School and Hammond School, is acting as a consultant during this time of transition.
St. Peter's Episcopal School serves children ages three to five in preschool and kindergarten and through fifth grade in elementary school. It is located on Ashland Terrace.