A new School Head brings excitement to a school’s campus. When you have the opportunity to take on a new Headship, you are presented with the chance to build rapport with your community, infuse new energy into the school’s initiatives, and offer fresh ideas and strategies for accomplishing the school’s goals.
But there are a few things you should keep in mind to help manage a successful transition. Whether you’re starting a new position in the upcoming school year or hope to start a new Headship position one day, keep this article bookmarked for your records.
What to do in advance of taking the new position
Once you’ve been appointed as the new School Head, visit the campus in the spring before your tenure begins. Start your visit by meeting with the Search Committee—the group of four or five Board members who guided the Head-search process. They will help you accomplish the following.
- Hold a public event to introduce yourself to the community. Many schools incorporate this introduction into the spring auction or other spring-time celebration.
- Set aside time to meet with your Leadership Team, as well as with faculty, parent, and student leaders.
- Ensure you receive all digital and print mailings sent out by the school.
- Attend sporting events, club meetings, and other activities to meet current parents, potential families, and community leaders.
- Arrange meetings with the Board President and the Executive Committee (if your Board has this standing committee). If a Board meeting is scheduled, this is a great opportunity to see the Board in action.
- Set up times to work directly with the Head Support and Evaluation Committee, either in person or by phone, to increase your knowledge of the school and its issues, changes, activities, events, etc.
These connections are vital to creating ties with the community. Your entrance into this role provides an opportunity to build the school’s name recognition and image. Take advantage of every chance you have to meet local leaders in government, business, and society.
Additional ISM Resources:
The Source for School Heads Vol. 16 No. 6 Why the Well-Being of the School Head Matters
Additional Resources for ISM Members:
I&P Vol. 42 No. 10 Well-Being, Executive Leadership, and School Performance
