Julie Anderson
Each month RG175 does a "deeper dive" to get to know one of our Independent School colleagues. This month, we feature Julie Anderson. A native of North Haven, CT, Julie now resides in Cheshire, where she is in her 8th year as Head of School. While her roots are in Connecticut, she is adventurous and has lived in San Diego, Virginia Beach, and Madrid, Spain.
After earning both her BA and MALS from Wesleyan University and an MS from Southern CT State University, Julie launched her professional journey. As a teacher, she has spanned the full range of middle and high school Spanish, served as an advisor and dorm parent, and advised clubs, including affinity groups that empower young women.
Julie is deeply enthusiastic about faculty mentoring, growth, and development, and strives to build strong teams and cultivate a healthy school climate and culture. Prioritizing belonging as a core value, Julie is committed to ensuring that every student feels safe and empowered to pursue their aspirations without fear that their identity will hold them back.
As Head of School at Cheshire Academy, Julie introduced a tuition reset that boosted enrollment and led antiracism initiatives. A trustee of the Connecticut Association of Independent Schools and NEASC accreditation vice chair, she’s now thrilled to join The Rectory School as its next Head of School, returning to elementary and middle grades education.
Julie’s family includes her husband, Tom, a veteran math teacher, and their blended family of four adult children, each pursuing their passions. They enjoy summers in Maine with their goldendoodle, Charlie.
What’s your connection to RG175?
A trusted colleague and mentor introduced me to RG175 when I was exploring new leadership opportunities in independent schools. From my very first interaction, I was impressed by the consultants' exceptional qualities. I've had the privilege of meeting three RG175 consultants, and each embodied a remarkable blend of professional expertise and genuine personal commitment.
Can you summarize your experience working with RG175?
During my search process for the position at The Rectory School, Molly and Bob were extraordinary partners. Their guidance was nothing short of transformative. They were meticulously attentive to every detail, always available to answer even my most nuanced questions, and consistently worked to ensure I was thoroughly prepared for each stage of the interview process.
What truly set them apart was their unwavering support. No question was too small, no concern too minor. They helped me navigate the complex interview landscape with remarkable grace and confidence. Their approach wasn't just about finding a job—it was about supporting my professional journey.
I can say without reservation that my experience with RG175 was exceptional. Their commitment to supporting educational leaders is genuine, comprehensive, and deeply inspiring. I am profoundly grateful for their guidance and support.
If you had one thing to recommend to other candidates, what would it be?
It would be to present your authentic self in both your application materials and during the interview process. Authenticity is key; when you are true to yourself, you allow your unique qualities and strengths to shine through.
Remember, if you are the right fit for the position, it will resonate with the hiring team. So, embrace who you are, communicate with confidence, and let your genuine passion for the role come through. Being yourself not only makes the process more enjoyable but also helps ensure that you find a position that aligns with your values and aspirations.
What do you enjoy most about your job as it pertains to Independent Schools?
It is the profound opportunity to foster genuine connections and create a vibrant learning community. At the heart of this experience is the privilege of working in close partnership with students and their families. This collaborative approach allows us to truly understand each student's unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations.
I find immense joy in witnessing the growth of our students as they evolve into confident, curious learners. It's incredibly rewarding to see them develop not just academically, but also emotionally and socially. I love creating an environment where students feel safe to explore, question, and challenge themselves, knowing they have a supportive network behind them.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role is helping students recognize and appreciate the uniqueness in each human being. In our diverse community, we have the opportunity to celebrate different perspectives, cultures, and experiences. This not only enriches our learning environment but also prepares our students to be empathetic, open-minded citizens of the world.
The independent school setting allows for a level of personalization and innovation in education that I find incredibly exciting. We can adapt our approaches to meet the individual needs of our students, fostering a love for learning that extends far beyond the classroom.
Ultimately, what I enjoy most is being part of a community that values holistic education - one that nurtures not just the mind, but also the heart and spirit of each student. It's a privilege to play a role in shaping the future through the young minds we guide and inspire every day.