A Comparative Study of Headship Transitions in K-12 International and U.S. Independent Schools

• In Event: Structuring for Success in Private Education

Abstract

Headship transitions in independent schools can bring renewed spirit and school cohesiveness when handled well. Conversely, transition mismanagement can lead to a head’s rocky entry or even a premature exit. International schools and U.S. independent schools represent forms of independent schooling that vary dramatically with regard to average headship longevity: over ten years in domestic independent schools versus less than four years in international schools. Given projections that the number of international schools might double during the next decade, this study represents an initial investigation to determine which transition factors, if any, account for shorter tenures for international school heads and longer tenures for heads of U.S. independent schools. Recommendations for practice and future research are provided.

Authors

• Pearl R. Kane, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Justin Barbaro, Teachers College, Columbia University