Head of School / Principal

Reporting and scope

The head of an independent school reports to the board of trustees. A principal of a charter or parochial school may report to a board, a network leader or a diocese. Authority covers the whole school.

Core responsibilities

• Leads curriculum, instruction and teacher evaluation
• Hires, supports and retains faculty and staff
• Oversees enrollment, tuition setting and financial aid
• Works with the board on budget, strategy and campus planning
• Leads fundraising and parent relations, especially at independent schools
• Maintains accreditation, state requirements and student safety policies

How it differs

The Academic Director oversees curriculum under the head. The Director of Admissions runs enrollment. A Provost / Academic VP is the chief academic officer of a college or university, not a K-12 school.

By organization size

In a small school the head may teach and handle admissions. At large independent schools the head leads division heads and a senior team and spends much time on fundraising and the board.