Adam Fischer
Each month RG175 does a "deeper dive" to get to know one of our Independent School colleagues. This month we are spotlighting Adam Fischer. Adam has the great good fortune to serve as Head of The Rashi School in Greater Boston. Combining innovation and tradition to guide people to live and act on their values to make the world a better place are the hallmark of his decades in independent school education.
What is your connection to RG175?
RG175 brought our school and me together in a wonderful partnership and that is the key word at RG175—partnership. From the first person I met I was not only welcomed as a valued colleague, that one meeting brought me into a circle of expert leaders who love schools and dedicate their deep experience to serving them.
Can you summarize your experience working with RG175?
Unique among the firms I encountered, the RG175 consultants’ interest extended beyond a particular search. You understand that knowing people matters. I experienced a genuine sense of care for the right fit as well as my development as a leader. The mentorship has been outstanding.
If you had one thing to recommend to other candidates, what would it be?
Call RG175! Work with a firm that feels like people you would be pleased and proud to work with. I respect everyone I’ve met at RG175. They’re all people I can learn from and appreciate what I offer as well. That means a lot to me.
What do you enjoy most about your job as it pertains to Independent Schools?
In my view, teaching and learning is the most important work people do—everything comes from it. Each person in our school owns a piece of that responsibility and achievement. In my role, I’m able to encourage the culture and support our best efforts. It is demanding, complex, and calls on every part of me.
What are some of your greatest achievements?
As an educator, I get to spend every day working to make the world better. Working to accomplish this valuable goal is a privilege. Recognizing and developing potential inspires me. It doesn’t matter whether they’re five or forty-five, individuals or groups, guiding people towards this is my most meaningful achievement.
How has Covid-19 affected your job/business and how have you adapted?
Over the last few years in particular, independent schools had many opportunities to exercise our independence. Especially during such tumultuous times, the value of that freedom and the ability to pivot have been critical to supporting our students and communities. Covid highlighted the potential power of our self-determination when coupled with our community’s unwavering support. Quickly offering engaging education online, coming back together safely at the earliest possible moment, and nurturing the growth and mental health of our students, no matter what, are all examples of this.
Anything you would like to add?
Every period in a child’s life can create the meaning they carry with them forever. Graduate after graduate of our K-8 school tells me it’s the place that had the biggest influence on their lives. Yes, students need excellent academics and also need to develop their identity, a sense of responsibility to self and community, and the agency to act on their values. Our schools serve a critical role in this important work.