Hanahau‘oli School
Director of Strategy & Operations, Professional Development Center
Start Date: July 1, 2026
Co-ed, progressive, day school
PK-Grade 6, 233 students
1922 Makiki St., Honolulu, HI 96822
Educators Collaborative is pleased to be supporting Hanahau‘oli School, in their search for a Director of Strategy and Operations at their Professional Development Center.
About the School
Hanahau‘oli School is an extraordinary independent elementary school in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, with a century-long legacy of progressive education rooted in joyful, child-centered learning. Founded in 1918, the school nurtures Junior Kindergarten through 6th-grade students in a vibrant, multiage learning environment that honors the natural way children learn—through doing—making learning both exciting and meaningful.
At the heart of Hanahau‘oli’s identity is “joyous work”—an approach to education that emphasizes collaboration, creativity, play, and inquiry-based experiences that connect students to their community, culture, and world. The school’s intimate and supportive learning community fosters deep relationships among students, teachers, families, and staff, forming a connected ‘ohana grounded in respect, compassion, and belonging.
Hanahau‘oli also serves the broader educational community through its Professional Development Center (PDC)—an extension of the school’s progressive philosophy that offers educative experiences for educators, scholars, parents, and community members and extends the school’s impact beyond its campus.
Mission and Guiding Beliefs
During the first assembly of the 2025-2026 school year, Head of School Lia Woo ’88 unveiled Hanahau‘oli’s refreshed mission statement and guiding beliefs—the culmination of 18 months of reflection, dialogue, and thoughtful collaboration, led by the Board of Trustees and inspired by the diverse voices across Hanahau‘oli’s community.
Mission
Hanahau‘oli School is a leader in progressive education with roots in Hawai‘i. We work with joy and we play with purpose, designing stepping stones for children to explore within and reach beyond as they imagine and create a better world.
Guiding Beliefs
A‘o aku a‘o mai: To teach is to learn, to learn is to teach. Step by step, we work together to find the harmonies between:
- Individual & Kākou (all of us): Communities thrive when individuals learn to think gor themselves and collaborate with others.
- Work & Play: Play is the work of children and joyous work makes for a flourishing life.
- Kilo & Voice: Kilo (observation) and communication are essential for navigating a changing world.
- Analytical & Creative: Education is both a science and an art.
- Tradition & Change: Tradition is essential for perpetuating joyous work and innovation is critical for progress
These beliefs reflect Hanahau‘oli’s deep respect for childhood, curiosity, empathy, and responsibility—preparing students to contribute with clarity, compassion, and agency in an evolving world.
About the Position
Hanahau‘oli School seeks a visionary, entrepreneurial leader to serve as Director of Strategy & Operations for its Professional Development Center (PDC). This senior leadership role offers the opportunity to shape and grow a mission-driven center dedicated to advancing progressive education for educators, schools, and communities. Working closely with the Head of School, the PDC Director, and school leadership, the Director of Strategy & Operations will translate bold ideas into sustainable impact—setting strategic priorities, strengthening systems, expanding partnerships, and ensuring the long-term vitality of the PDC. The role balances high-level strategic thinking with hands-on execution across fundraising, finance, operations, and program development.
The ideal candidate brings at least five years of leadership experience—preferably in nonprofit or education settings—and a demonstrated track record in fundraising, grant writing, budget oversight, and building strong external partnerships. A compelling communicator and collaborative relationship-builder, this leader is highly organized, mission-aligned, and energized by growing programs that make a meaningful difference. Integrity, sound judgment, and the ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies are essential, as is a willingness to be an active, engaged member of the Hanahau‘oli school community.
The full position description and leadership profile will be available soon.
How to Apply
Candidates interested in the position should submit the following materials. Applications will be considered as received.
- EC Summary Sheet (request from Nat Conard)
- Letter of Interest addressed to the Search Committee
- Statement of educational leadership philosophy
- Resume
- A list of five professional references, with contact information (name, relationship to candidate, phone, and email)
- EC Disclosure Statement (request from Nat Conard)
Nat Conard, Managing Partner, Educators Collaborative
Listing Date: February 14, 2026
SEARCH, TRANSITION & STRATEGY
