Mike Black

Mike serves as Grove’s Associate Executive Director and co-chairs the Guidance Department, overseeing transition planning and helping students prepare for life beyond Grove. A Connecticut shoreline native, he joined Grove in 2006 after earning his Bachelor’s in Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Development from Franklin Pierce University. Over nearly two decades, Mike has served in multiple roles—Program Counselor, Teacher/Counselor, Residential Administrator, and Director of the Transition Program—giving him deep insight into every aspect of student life at Grove.

Mike keeps soccer going year-round as Head Coach during the varsity season, leading the team in competition against other schools in Connecticut and Rhode Island through the Coastal Prep League, and running Soccer Club throughout the winter, spring, and summer. He has also led numerous ASTEE trips to destinations including the Caribbean, El Salvador, London, Barcelona, Montreal, and Washington DC, as well as annual whitewater rafting adventures on the Deerfield River and Senior Week at Brownstone Park.

In his leadership role, Mike focuses on helping students develop the skills and confidence they need to transition successfully. He works closely with students, families, and staff to create individualized plans that set students up for long-term success after Grove. What Mike values most about his work are the relationships he builds along the way—with students, parents, and colleagues. He has dedicated his career to working with people because he believes he can make a meaningful difference every day.