Head of School Search

The search process is underway during the 2026–2027 academic year, with the goal of announcing the next Head of School in advance of a July 1, 2027 start date. This timeline allows for a thoughtful, thorough process and a smooth leadership transition. 

Valwood is committed to ensuring strong, stable leadership that advances our mission to instill in its students an enthusiasm for academic excellence, the foundations of strong character, and a commitment to serve others. This search represents an opportunity to build on the school’s strengths and position Valwood for continued success.

The search is being led by a dedicated Search Committee made up of trustees and key community representatives. Valwood has also engaged The Education Group, a national firm specializing in independent school leadership searches, to guide and support the process.

We are seeking a leader who:

• Champions Valwood’s mission of academics, character, and service
• Builds strong relationships with students, families, faculty, and alumni
• Demonstrates strategic vision and operational excellence
• Values community, tradition, and innovation
• Is committed to developing students who are prepared for college and life beyond

Community input is a vital part of this process. Parents, faculty, staff, alumni, and students will have opportunities to:

• Participate in surveys and listening sessions
• Meet with the consultants helping guide us through the search process
• Attend open forums with candidates selected as finalists
• Share feedback with the Search Committee

Valwood’s strength is its close-knit, collaborative community, and we want that reflected in this process.

Yes. Finalist candidates will visit campus, and members of the Valwood community will have opportunities to meet them in structured settings and provide feedback to the Search Committee. 

Confidentiality is essential to attracting a strong and diverse pool of candidates. While finalist visits will be public within the community, earlier stages of the process will remain confidential.

The Education Group is partnering with Valwood to:

• Identify and recruit highly qualified candidates
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement
• Guide the committee through a best-practice search process
• Ensure a strong match between Valwood and its next Head of School

Once a candidate is selected and accepts the position, the school will announce the new Head of School to the community. A transition period will follow to ensure continuity and a successful start on July 1, 2027.

The Valwood community will receive regular updates throughout the process via school communications, ensuring transparency while maintaining appropriate confidentiality. All search updates will also be posted on the Valwood Head of School Search Page.

Community members are encouraged to share thoughts, questions, or nominations with the Consultants: Bob Veto, bveto@educationgroup.com and Katherine Stuart, katherine@educationgroup.com and the Search Committee valwoodsearchcommittee@gmail.com.

At Valwood, this process is about more than selecting a leader, it is about honoring our mission and ensuring a vibrant future for our students, families, and community.