Q. How will the new Head of School be selected?
A. One of the primary responsibilities of the Board of Trustees is to hire the Head of School, who is responsible for school management and operation. Together with ensuring the financial sustainability of SJA, hiring a new Head of School is the Board’s most important responsibility. A Board Search Committee was formed to engage a consultant in a national search for Dr. Legenhausen’s successor. After considering multiple search firms, the Board hired the firm of Education Access Strategies that specializes in head searches particularly in medium sized, church related schools. Dr. Richard Jung, firm partner, is guiding the Board Search Committee in this task.
Q. How can we be assured that the traditions and “St. James Way” are honored and
preserved by the next Head of School?
A. Addressing this valid concern is a priority for SJA leadership. Teachers, administrators, past and current parents, and parish members serve on a Search Advisory Committee to guide our Search Committee consultant to achieve this goal. The position posting for candidates serves as a guide for the “St. James Way”.
Q. Is the position of Head open to any current faculty or administrators of SJA?
A. Yes, any internal candidate will be given the same opportunity and scrutiny as external candidates for the position.
Q. How does the search process work?
A. The SJA Head’s position profile has been listed on the AIMS, NAES, NAIS, and Education Direction’s Blue Sheet websites. It can be reviewed on the SJA website along with a timeline under About Us. A “Profile for Candidates” will be available by mid-May with an applicant deadline of September 1st. Semi-finalists and final candidates will visit SJA in mid to late fall with Head selection by November/December 2011.
Q. How can the SJA community support a smooth transition for the new Head of
School?
A. Once the new Head is named, Dr. L will most willingly invite our new professional to participate with the community in special events (as fully as possible dependent on his/her current job responsibilities). Moreover, our search consultant assists the Board and new appointee to develop “A First 100 Days Plan” to assure a successful, seamless transition.