Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy’s head of school search committee recently updated the school’s community on the status of its search.
To begin the process, a head of school survey was sent to HBHA parents, faculty, alumni, board members and upper school students, with the goal of collecting diverse perspectives on qualities needed to be an excellent HBHA head of school. The search committee is now thoroughly reviewing survey results.
“The survey results demonstrate a great appreciation for the quality of HBHA’s academics, from both a general studies and Judaics perspective. Respondents noted satisfaction with the warmth, inclusiveness and family-feeling that permeates HBHA,” said Carol Porter, former HBHA board chair, who co-chairs the head of school search committee along with Pete Levi, former HBHA board member.
The survey also provided insight into what HBHA families are seeking in a new head of school. Overall priorities include:
Continued focus on student recruitment and retention,
Renewed attention on a comprehensive development plan, and
Continued rigor and growth with respect to academic offerings and the dual track Judaic curriculum.
Outreach
During the survey process, HBHA posted a head of school opportunity statement at hbha.edu. The statement and job description were listed on internet job sites, Jewish education websites, and a variety of Jewish communal professional listservs to provide broad outreach and secure potential candidates. In addition to these mass appeals, HBHA’s search consultant, Jewish day school expert Marc Kramer of Kramer Education Group, focused on direct outreach — to prospective candidates as well as to leaders in the field for recommendations.
HBHA has received notable interest from a variety of candidates during the outreach process. These candidates include a mix of individuals with many years of mid- and upper-level school administration who wish to expand their careers into the top leadership position as head of school, and more seasoned heads of school.
HBHA’s search committee has begun the process of vetting these applications and holding initial interviews. The committee also continues outreach to potential candidates across the day school world.
HBHA and the search committee will share more information about the head of school search as the school progresses to the next phase of the process.