Find the Right Leader

Head of School and Senior Administrator Searches for Independent Schools

Our work begins with deep listening and ends with confident, mission-aligned placements. Every school we serve has a unique history, culture, and set of priorities—and our approach is built to match.

We start by recognizing and understanding what makes your community distinct. Each of our partners-all former successful school leaders- brings a deep network of professional contacts and uses proven strategies to expand and diversify that reach. This enables us to identify,  recruit, and vet candidates who not only align with your values, but who will strengthen your culture and help propel your mission forward.

Two Types of Search, One Philosophy

Head of School Searches

Designed for boards navigating one of the most important decisions in the life of a school.

  • Governance-aligned process
  • Deep community engagement
  • Early reference checks to support long-term success

Senior Administrator Searches

Designed for Heads building leadership teams aligned with mission and strategy.

  • Customized for your school’s structure and needs
  • Targeted recruitment for roles like Associate Head, CFO, Enrollment, Advancement, etc.
  • Effective, values-driven process

For more than 50 years, Educators Collaborative has partnered with schools to find, attract, and transition effective and mission-aligned leaders.

Our Proven Process

Discover & Plan

We begin by listening. Through stakeholder input sessions, we develop a clear understanding of your school’s needs, culture, and priorities. From there, we build the timeline and create a compelling Leadership Profile that reflects your community’s voice.

Recruitment & Outreach

Using our extensive network, best-in-class AI sourcing, and a proactive outreach strategy, we identify and engage strong, mission-aligned candidates. Every search is tailored — we don’t wait for candidates to apply; we reach out to those who may be the right fit.

Evaluation & Selection

We support hiring stakeholders in evaluating candidates with clarity and care. Our process includes in-depth vetting, interviews, stakeholder feedback, and finalist selection — all structured to ensure transparency and alignment.

Transition & Support

Our work doesn’t end with the hire. In the case of a head of school search, we remain engaged through the new Head’s first year, offering support during the transition and onboarding process to help your new leader — and your school — thrive.

Every EC search is grounded in deep listening, driven by strategy, and shaped by the school’s values. 

What Sets the EC
Approach Apart

Led by Former School Leaders

Every search is guided by an experienced EC partner who understands school culture from the inside.

Customized for Fit and Mission

We don’t take a cookie cutter approach. Each process is tailored to your school’s distinct values and needs.

Early Insight, Lasting Success

Early vetting and ongoing support help schools choose—and keep—the right leader.

KevinMcClellan

“Educators Collaborative could not have been a better partner. They were with us every step of the way and their relational approach, professionalism, and commitment to setting up the new Head for success sets them apart from all other firms.”

— Kevin McClellan, Search Committee Chair and Board Chair, St. James’ Episcopal School

Let’s Find Your Next Leader Together
Ready to position your school for success with an effective leader?