Dave Davies, The Education Group
The global pandemic and subsequent isolation and school closures have presented Boards of Trustees with unimaginable challenges. Projecting enrollment and expenses, wrestling with potentially explosive growth in requests for tuition assistance, and supporting the Head of School and his/her staff are all uncharted waters for Boards.
A leadership transition in the midst of this adds a significant wrinkle. The transition for a new Head is complicated by the inability to make the customary visits to the new school to meet students, faculty, parents, and the Board. Practical concerns such as house hunting, moving, and other logistical matters only add to the challenge. Boards and transition committees will have much more to do in the months ahead.
However, what cannot get lost in all of the forward planning is celebrating the service of the departing Head of School. Regardless of whether the Head’s tenure was three or thirty years, it is important, not just from the Head’s standpoint but also institutionally, that this chapter in the school’s history be recognized and that the Head be thanked.
Many of the customary celebrations are not possible with schools shuttered and social distancing in effect. Cocktail parties, dinners, assemblies, chapels - all are likely off the table.
There are, however, numerous recognitions possible even in this state of lockdown that will properly acknowledge and thank outgoing Heads. Some of these are appropriate for longer-serving Heads, but the Board will make appropriate decisions.
a memory book of cards and letters, handwritten if possible, interspersed with photos of the Head interacting with students;
a drive-by parade at the Head’s house or, if s/he is at school, in the parking lot, signs, balloons, etc.
a parting gift, perhaps larger than usual given the savings on cocktail parties and dinners, ideally something befitting the Head’s interests like season symphony tickets, gift certificate from a travel agency for a trip (probably not a cruise!), or tickets to a major sporting event.
a student-created video with testimonials from various constituencies
in the case of a significant tenure or major program or facility development, a naming opportunity -- naming a facility for the Head, creation of or naming of an existing award in the Head’s name (ex. outstanding graduate)
The Board’s actions will be a clear sign to the community of their understanding and appreciation of commitment and service to the school. It is critical that the Board be thoughtful and proactive in this matter.