Jack Phillips
Each month RG175 does a "deeper dive" to get to know one of our Independent School colleagues. This month, we feature Jack Phillips. Jack joined Tower Hill as Head of Upper School in July of 2024. He has held similar division head roles previously at The American School in London and Phoenix Country Day School. As a classroom teacher, he taught subjects including math, physics, computer science, and music theory at Arizona State University and the Commonwealth School in Boston, MA. Dr. Phillips holds a B.A. in Physics from Brown University, an M.M. in Music Composition from Arizona State University and Boston Conservatory, and an Ed.D. in Education Leadership and Policy from Vanderbilt University. He will reside in the greater Philadelphia area with his wife and two children.
What’s your connection to RG175?
My most recent connection to RG175 is through their leadership of the search that placed me in my current role at Tower Hill. I was fortunate to be selected through that process, and it was clear throughout that the team brought a deep understanding of independent schools and thoughtful leadership to every step. Over the years, I’ve also had the opportunity to work with and learn from several RG175 consultants—whether during their time in school leadership or through other professional intersections.
Many of them have been among the best mentors and colleagues I’ve had in my career, and I’ve benefited greatly from their wisdom, perspective, and generosity.
Can you summarize your experience working with RG175?
Working with RG175 as a candidate was a truly positive experience. From the beginning, they took the time to get to know me—not just my resume, but who I am as a leader and what I value. They had a deep understanding of both the school and the position, and it was clear that their goal was to make the best possible match between candidate and school. I felt like they had a genuine investment in my success. They were responsive, supportive, and incredibly easy to work with. What stood out most was their honesty—I received thoughtful, constructive feedback that not only helped me through the placement process but also offered valuable guidance I’ll carry with me throughout my career.
If you had one thing to recommend to other candidates, what would it be?
This may sound obvious, but my biggest recommendation to other candidates is to be really clear about what matters most to you in finding the right fit. For me, the most critical factor was the leadership—the Head of School I’d be working with and the administrative team I’d be joining. I knew I wanted to be part of a team that was dynamic, kind, honest, and driven. With RG175’s guidance and support, I was fortunate to find exactly that. Being intentional about your priorities makes all the difference in finding a school where you can thrive.
What do you enjoy most about your job as it pertains to Independent Schools?
There are so many aspects of my job that I truly love, but what stands out most in my position as a division head is being at the intersection of students, teachers, and school leadership. It’s a deeply rewarding place to be. I get to engage with a vibrant community that values each student, family, and teacher, while also contributing strategically to the school’s broader goals and direction. Independent schools, in particular, offer a dynamism and sense of connectedness that I find incredibly energizing. There’s a shared commitment to growth—both personal and institutional—that makes the work meaningful every single day.