At its core, the relationship between the head of school and chair of the board can be transformative for both the board and the school. Complete trust and support are the cornerstones of building a strong relationship from the start.
It is impossible to overstate the importance of selecting the right board chair. The chair should be chosen through a clear and collaborative process. Although almost all schools’ bylaws clarify that selection is a board prerogative, the head of school must play a significant role in selecting the board chair. Indeed, the board needs the head to be excited to work with the chair – and vice versa.
The head of school works for the board and the board chair; at the same time, the head leads the board in strategic ways. Consequently, ensuring that there is a healthy partnership between the chair and head is paramount.
The head and the chair should support one another personally and professionally, setting aside time to attend meetings like the NAIS Leadership Through Partnership program to focus on best practices and to get to know one another better.
Being proactive is imperative, ensuring that both individuals do all they can not to have any surprises. The head should often ask the chair, “What do you need from me?” The head needs to inform the chair of anything of importance occurring at school. It is much better for the chair to be overinformed than underinformed. Additionally, both parties should utilize the Executive Committee to debate new ideas or difficult situations.
Throughout their years together, it is important for the head to remain cognizant that the chair, like all board members, is a volunteer. The head should be sensitive to the chair’s time and commitment, doing all he or she can to ensure the chair’s success. By the same token, the chair should be doing all he or she can to ensure the head’s success. In this way, a strong head and chair partnership can propel a school forward toward ever greater mission fulfillment.