A Head who leaves and takes a position in a new school is a common scenario, but not the only one. Be wary of the situation created by the chief administrator who leaves but remains in the community—particularly a long-term and beloved Head who is going into retirement.
It is a natural selection for this administrator to make. Over the course of years, strong friendships and ties have developed. But think about the problems that may arise as the former Head, who has an abiding interest in the school, seeks information—or at least welcomes information when it is offered. This can prove problematic, especially at the beginning of the school year.
Faculty members who react negatively to any of the new Head’s changes may seek out this “sympathetic ear.” Others from the school’s constituencies may logically solicit the former Head’s appraisal of the new administration.
The friendships Board members, faculty, parents, and others close to the school have formed with this individual over the years are not likely to dissolve with the Head’s departure from the school. However, the continual interplay of key constituents with the former Head may prove counterproductive to developing a new administration, especially when it comes to implementing new ideas.
The Board must be aware of these potential problems and guard against them in every way possible. The former Head’s good intentions are not enough. There should be a clear understanding that:
- the former Head must not return to campus unless invited by the new Head;
- the former Head must discourage any attempts by former constituents (for example, Trustees, teachers, parents, students, and alumni) to air their grievances. Any appearance of sympathy with these complaints by the former Head will undermine the new administration; and
- individual Board members must discipline themselves not to call on the former Head for advice or reaction to current school issues. If the school needs information from the former Head, the current Head should make the contact, not the Board.
The planning you do to provide guidance, support, and recognition for the departing Head—coupled with immediate and tactful response to any difficulties that arise—ensures the transition goes smoothly for the incoming Head and the school.
Additional ISM Resources:
The Source for Trustees Vol. 13 No. 6 When the School Head Leaves “Under a Cloud”
The Source for Trustees Vol. 16 No. 2 Respectful and Constructive Board/School Head Relationships
Additional ISM resources for members:
I&P Vol. 40 No. 1 School Head Longevity and Attrition
I&P Vol. 36 No. 13 Ease the Transition for the Incoming Head
