The seven partners at Strategic School Leadership are all successful former heads of independent schools, averaging over 20 years in the job. To a person, we believe that school leaders are well served by having a coach: a thought partner who can not only ask helpful questions but who also brings experience and expertise to the conversation. In this role, we meet with heads on a regular basis: typically, every other week.
Beyond this regular rhythm of listening and feedback, we try to help a head of school grow by using an assessment instrument called the “Return on Character,” or ROC. A developmental model focused on helping the head improve, the ROC uses a 360 degree–style assessment that looks at four dimensions of character: integrity, responsibility, compassion and forgiveness. The ROC provides a deep analysis of the effectiveness of the work of the head through multiple perspectives – trustees, senior administrators, faculty and staff. Importantly, the work does not end with the assessment. Rather, we work with the head to create an “Elevation Plan” – a summary of both strengths and areas of growth for the head, plus a specific plan for moving forward, keying on changing habits that can spur further improvement and greater success in the future. In fact, if a head takes on an ROC, we spend at least six months in intensive follow-up coaching to make sure that the assessment does not sit on a shelf but is used to help the head improve.
Wrote one school leader:
The Return on Character coaching has been, hands down, the best professional development I have ever experienced. My coach handed me both a magnifying glass and a telescope and taught me how to tend to the weeds of the everyday work while reminding me to look up at the sky for new ideas and inspirations.
The coaching and data feedback have made me more intentional in the day-to-day moments that often go unnoticed, and more curious about the “why” behind what I do. Most of all, it’s given me a renewed sense of joy in connecting with people – seeing them, hearing them, and learning right alongside them.
Sound interesting? Please get in touch – we would love to talk with you.