A recent conversation with a search committee member has me thinking about the difference between “positive thinking” and “wishful thinking,” and the impact this seemingly subtle difference has on leadership searches in schools. Like any good researcher in 2023, I turned to ChatGPT to help me unders... read more
RG175 Blog
As part of our ongoing effort to cultivate and support independent school leadership, RG175 consultants contribute monthly blog posts on topics ranging from governance and head transitions to strategic thinking and school management.
Like all aspects of the world disrupted by the pandemic, the timeline for senior administrative searches, particularly for Assistant Head of School and Division Director positions, have been affected. Previously, it was common for larger, complex schools to initiate searches for their next senior le... read more
A few years back, I was taken with a podcast called “Presidential” which explores the unknown facts of all US presidents. In one episode, podcast host Lillian Cunningham asked Washington Post editor, Bob Bernstein, for a definition of “presidential.” He answered that presidential meant being able to... read more
Head of school search committees sometimes get confused between seeking what they think will “fit” for their school community as opposed to finding what they really “need.” The word “fit” is bandied about a lot in head search processes. On the surface, it seems like a fundamental concept that underp... read more
Thinking about becoming a Head of School? As consultants, we meet many rising stars and talk with search committees about them. What do aspiring candidates need to bring to the table? What do boards look for? Here is some advice for candidates considering throwing their hat in the ring, as well as... read more
“I’m not feeling he has enough gravitas.” “I can’t tell if her energy is accompanied by the ability to pace herself.” “He’s got exactly the experience we need, but there’s something a little rigid about him.” “She’s calm, which I appreciate, but I can’t tell if she rises to challenges.” All thes... read more