It’s time to illuminate the head search process.​

The head of school position is critical to an independent school’s strategic progress and success — yet head turnover is high and head tenure appears to be declining. As an industry, how can we increase head stability and unlock the mysteries of successful head tenure? 

Welcome to HSDB, the Head of School Database. By aggregating publicly available information, this database helps school leaders, volunteers, and consultants better understand head of school tenure, placement, leadership, and community trends. 

The goal of HSDB is to provide the transparent facts and essential resources to help independent schools attract and retain strong school leadership.

Ready to get ahead with HSDB?

Head tenure is dwindling.

In the 2019-20 school year, about one in five new and interim heads of school followed a head who held the position for less than four years.1

One in three schools reported having three or more heads in the past decade.2

This trend toward reduced tenure can disrupt progress and undermine stability. Independent schools need leadership consistency to address core issues and move their institutions forward.

1,2 National Association of Independent Schools

Improved head stability requires a greater understanding of industry trends and processes.

As a public database dedicated to understanding head searches and tenure, HSDB provides a window into the complexity of head of school placement and longevity. Explore: 
  • Headship histories and prior appointments
  • Community connections
  • Search timing and process
  • Consultant assignments
  • Basic school information 
  • Articles and resources 
  • Reports and dashboards

The purpose of HSDB is to reveal information and trends in leadership and search while also supplementing the human stories that are critical to understanding head placement and service. Learn more about HSDB.

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