Head of School
Head of School
School: The Children's School
Available Position: Administrator
Description:
About the School
The Children’s School (TCS) is a coeducational, independent PK–8 school located in the
heart of Midtown Atlanta. Set across a unique and charming campus—composed largely
of repurposed homes nestled in a historic neighborhood across from Piedmont Park—
TCS offers students an inclusive, challenging, and dynamic learning environment.
For over 50 years, the school has nurtured academic excellence, creativity, and
leadership by building confident, curious, and community-connected students. Guided
by Progressive educational principles, TCS supports intellectual growth through
relationships, purposeful learning, and a deep engagement with the wider civic
landscape of Atlanta.
Our Mission and Values
The mission of The Children’s School is to enrich minds and inspire dreams.
We are a highly engaged, compassionate, courageous and diverse community of
student and adult learners. In keeping with the progressive vision of our founder, Lila
McDill, we honor every member of this community as their authentic self. We embrace
play in everything we do because it is essential to the intellectual, social, emotional,
physical and cultural development of our young children and young adults. Our joyful
and nurturing campus in the heart of Midtown Atlanta supports students, challenging
them to take risks and encouraging them to make a positive impact on our everchanging
world.
Position Overview
The Children’s School is seeking an inspiring, visionary, and strategic leader to serve as
its next Head of School. As chief executive, the Head of School will be responsible for
the overall leadership, management, and long-term success of the institution. This
individual will partner closely with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and families to
uphold the school’s mission and drive its continued growth and innovation.
Leadership & Vision
The next Head of School will:
Champion the mission and strategic vision of TCS.
Inspire and support a collaborative, high-performing faculty and staff.
Serve as the school’s lead communicator and ambassador to internal and external audiences.
Promote a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Partner with the Board of Trustees to ensure strong governance and institutional alignment.
Academic Program & Innovation
The Head will:
Guide the development of a rigorous, progressive PK–8 curriculum that encourages intellectual curiosity, creativity, and social responsibility.
Champion teaching excellence and support faculty development.
Leverage innovation and best practices to enhance student learning and engagement.
Monitor academic outcomes and ensure a responsive, student-centered learning environment.
Financial & Operational Management
The Head will:
Safeguard the school’s financial sustainability through responsible budgeting and resource allocation.
Partner with the Business Office to maintain fiscal discipline and operational efficiency.
Engage donors and alumni to secure philanthropic support for key priorities.
Community & Culture
The Head will:
Cultivate a warm, inclusive culture in which every member of the community feels a strong sense of belonging.
Foster transparent communication and meaningful relationships with families.
Support enrollment growth by actively participating in recruitment and retention efforts.
Strengthen alumni engagement and connection to the school’s mission.
External Relations & Strategic Growth
The Head will:
Elevate the school’s visibility and reputation in the broader community.
Forge partnerships with local institutions, civic organizations, and cultural leaders.
Collaborate with Admissions to implement a strategic enrollment plan targeting 300 students.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Education & Experience
Master’s degree in education, leadership, or a related field (Doctorate preferred)
7–10 years of educational leadership experience, with at least 5 in a senior leadership role
Demonstrated success in strategic planning, team leadership, and organizational advancement
Deep knowledge of K–8 pedagogy and child development
Proven commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
Experience in financial oversight and advancement/fundraising
Familiarity with the independent school landscape and its opportunities
Personal Attributes
Visionary and strategic thinker
Inclusive and collaborative leader
Clear communicator with exceptional interpersonal skills
Adaptable, calm under pressure, and values-driven
Deeply passionate about education and student growth
Application Process & Timeline
The Gowan Group is currently conducting a research phase with the TCS community to
define the most essential qualities for the next Head of School. A finalized position
statement will be available by late August 2025.
Search Timeline
Late August: Final Position Statement published
September 15: Application deadline
Early October: Semi-finalists selected
Late October – Early November: Finalists visit campus
Mid-November: Appointment of new Head of School
Application Materials
Candidates should submit the following documents:
Cover letter expressing interest and relevant experience
Current résumé
Statement of educational philosophy
Three professional references
Please send all materials in confidence to:
J.P. Watson, Mike Vachow, and Chris Pryor at The Gowan Group
Searches@TheGowanGroup.com | 203.302.9939
Contact name: J.P. Watson, Mike Vachow, and Chris Pryor at The Gowan Group
Contact email address: Searches@TheGowanGroup.com