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? 

Introducing HSDB, the Head of School Database. By aggregating publicly available information, HSDB is designed to help school leaders, volunteers, and consultants better understand Head of School tenure, placement, leadership, and community trends. 

The goal: to provide the essential, transparent facts and resources that will help independent schools attract and retain strong school leadership.

Ready to get ahead with HSDB?

School head tenure is dwindling.

In the 2019-2020 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 the trends and processes in our industry than have historically been available.

As a public database dedicated to understanding head searches and tenure, HSDB provides one window into the complexity of head of school placement and longevity. Here, you can discover: 
  • Head service histories
  • The Head of School community
  • School leadership community connections
  • Search timing
  • Consulting assignments
  • Immediate prior job appointments
  • Basic school information 
  • Articles and resources 

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

Help shape HSDB.
Your input will ensure our data becomes more complete over time.