New Head of School Support Network

After the Workshops for New Heads of Independent Schools

?

During July, many of the leaders who have been selected by boards to become the heads of independent schools will attend workshops designed for new heads of schools. Most of those programs provide time for participants to build a network of peers who may become important sounding boards in the coming months and years. Some of the programs will assign experienced heads as mentors for the new heads to use when they are experiencing some of the inevitable challenges faced by school leaders. Peer relationships as well as mentor relationships are two way streets. They require people to be willing to reach out and for people to be available when someone needs to share a concern, ask for guidance or maintain a relationship.

?

Some new heads are fortunate to have past bosses who can serve as mentors and coaches. Some new heads will hire coaches to assist them as they navigate their new roles and new school communities. Many, I hope, will have board chairs who become partners with the new leaders. Others will have or will build administrative teams who will become important sounding boards. In some cases, there may be an experienced COO, CFO or other experienced administrative leaders who will serve as more than a thought partner.?Some new heads, for a variety of reasons, will try to go it alone.

?

Most new heads will experience the “drinking from a firehose” phenomenon that many heads and leaders of other organizations experience. Those leaders will find that the support from?their peers, mentors, coaches, search consultants, past bosses, and current administrative leaders is essential in order to best lead their new school communities. First time heads and heads who are changing schools find that the skills and leadership styles that worked in previous roles may not be effective in the new position or school culture. Having trusted, non-judgemental people available for observation and feedback can lead to growth and optimal leadership.

?

Even the most competent and independent leaders find they are more successful when they invite others to be sounding boards and partners. Being the head of school does not mean needing to be alone. It does not mean the head needs to have all the answers or be the smartest person in the room. Excellent leaders know how to build great teams and they know how to find people who will give them feedback, guidance and support so they can be the best versions of themselves.

?

I recently heard Simon Sinek say that the most important lesson he ever learned was to ask for help. I agree. Reach out to others. Model the behavior that encourages others to work as a team and be on the path of continuous improvement. Ideally, the two way street will become a super highway.