Michael Lomuscio
Each month RG175 does a "deeper dive" to get to know one of our Independent School colleagues. This month we are spotlighting Michael Lomuscio. Dr. Michael Lomuscio is an active independent school leader, educator, and researcher with a passion for developing people and programs. He currently serves as the Dean of Studies at ‘Iolani School in Honolulu Hawaii and is a co-host on the Fullstack Educator podcast, which provides helpful resources to new and aspiring independent school leaders. To read more about 'Iolani School, visit the website page here. To listen to the Fullstack podcast, click here.
What’s your connection to RG175?
During the 2020-2021 school year, I began a search for a new position. RG175 was running a number of searches for leadership positions at wonderful schools. One of the positions that I applied for was a perfect fit for me and my family. I went through RG175's robust interview process and ended up getting the job. I have been in my new role now for seven months and enjoy it tremendously.
Can you summarize your experience working with RG175?
RG175 was distinctly different from the other top independent school placement agencies. Their team is composed of folks with very substantial experience within independent school leadership. Many have extensive experience as heads of highly respected schools. Their understanding of the nuaces and complexities of leading schools enables them to ask the right questions and make successful matches. Throughout the process, I felt that they really understood the schools that they were representing and where my skills and experience would bring the most value. They also work with school leaders at every stage of the leadership journey. In addition to finding my job through them, I have also begun executive leadership coaching with a member of their team.
If you had one thing to recommend to other candidates, what would it be?
I believe that finding the right fit is more important than finding your dream title or salary. Do some introspective work as well as a ton of research on the schools that you are interested in. Ask questions like "Will I be happy at XYZ?" and "What value would I bring to XYZ?" Will you be happy in a city or a rural area? Will you like working at a large school or small school? Are you equipped for a 'turn-around' situation or would you bring more value to a thriving school community? Finding the right fit makes all the difference in your ability to succeed and enjoy the work. Getting a job is one thing. Keeping it and thriving within it is another.
What do you enjoy most about your job as it pertains to Independent Schools?
I love developing people and organizations. I also love being developed myself. In my role as Dean of Studies at ‘Iolani School, I get to experience all of the above. ‘Iolani has incredible teams of educators who are doing some of the most innovative work happening in K-12 education. I have learned so much from the folks here. I have also enjoyed serving and developing people and programs within the school.
What are some of your greatest achievements?
While I've accomplished many things in my career that I'm quite proud of, my time at ‘Iolani has just begun. ‘Iolani's "One Team" philosophy, their belief in the value of hard work, and their dedication to community has positioned them to tackle any challenge set before the school. The sky is the limit for this school and I'm excited to be a part of it.