How Much Does a Head of School Search Firm Cost?
Most executive search firms charge 25 to 35 percent of the new leader's first-year compensation. Here is how search fees work, what is included, what costs extra, and how to compare firms.
Our Head of School Just Resigned: What Should the Board Do in the First 30 Days?
When a Head of School announces a departure, the board's first 30 days shape the whole transition. A week-by-week plan for board chairs: communication, interim decisions, the search committee and readiness.
The Head of School Search Timeline, Month by Month (for a July 1 Start)
A month-by-month Head of School search timeline for a July 1 start, from the first board conversation to the new Head's first day, plus what to do if you are starting late.
How Should a Search Committee Evaluate "Fit" in a Head of School Candidate?
"Fit" is the most used and least defined word in school leadership searches. Here is how search committees can define it, test it, and avoid letting it become a proxy for sameness.
What Does a Bad Head of School Hire Cost a School?
A bad Head of School hire costs far more than a second search fee. Here are the six costs boards underestimate, how common failed headships are, and how to reduce the risk.
Why Do Heads of School Fail in Their First Two Years?
Most failed headships trace back to one of two causes: the Head's actions, or conditions the board created. Here is how to tell the difference, and how boards can prevent the second.