What Separates Thriving Schools from the Rest? It’s Not the Obvious.

As those of us with the privilege of serving in the world of independent and faith-based schools begin the new academic year, my thoughts gravitate back to the impact of leadership on schools. Leadership – we all talk about it, but here’s one way to express it – the ability to influence culture for good.

The statement, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast,” is one that genuinely resonates with me. In my years as a head of school and school consultant, I have seen up close independent and faith-based schools that have a poor culture and those that have a thriving, positive culture built on unity, shared vision, mission focus, and leadership that places the highest value on service, making a difference, and surrounding themselves with those who share these traits. Not simply people who agree on everything, but rather confront every issue and challenge with care and concern for one another, significant confidence in their ability to achieve results, and always have at the forefront the student experience.

Culture is just as relevant for the board as it is with school leadership and all constituencies of the school. Board leadership that is built on a foundation of trust, respect, collaboration, unity, and a desire to embrace best practice has the highest probability to function with purpose and vision to meet the strategic priorities of the school.  Can the board chair lead this group to encourage one another and inspire others with skills, wisdom, aspiring all to be their best by doing their best? It is this ability to discover the best in someone and recognize that relationships matter, particularly the relationship between the head of school and the board of trustees.

Leadership includes the ability to articulate a vision, connect that vision with a timetable, and communicate the financial consequences as to the realization of that vision – it is this recognition that separates inspiring leaders from all others.

Independent and faith-based schools face many uncertainties and numerous challenges across the educational spectrum. But there is one certainty that is valid, leadership that fosters a culture of best practices and recognizes the correlation between healthy boards and successful schools is destined to have a lasting impact.