Head of School

Head of School Job Description

Overview

Rooted in the testimonies of Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship (SPICES), the Head of School cultivates a warm, inclusive, and inquiry-driven learning environment in which children, families, and educators thrive.

The Head of School serves as the educational and operational leader of a Quaker early childhood program, serving children ages 6 months through Kindergarten, and reports to the School Committee. The School is located in Haverford, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia, and boasts a child-centered seven-acre campus under the care of the Haverford Monthly Meeting.

The School is currently navigating a thoughtful transition from a program serving children ages two through third grade to one intentionally focused on early childhood education. This shift reflects both the evolving needs of the community and a strategic opportunity to develop a program uniquely positioned to support young children through expansive access to outdoor learning and the values-based foundation of Quaker education during the earliest years of development. The school is accredited by Friends Council on Education, the Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools (PAIS), and the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS).

Guided by Quaker principles since its founding in 1885, Friends School Haverford provides an intellectually rich program to an intentionally diverse school family. We promote academic scholarship, creativity, respect, integrity, and self-awareness with a commitment to creating a culture of stewardship and kindness. Friends School Haverford graduates are uniquely prepared to go forth with boldness of intellect and character.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Model and embody Quaker values and the of Friends School Haverford in daily interactions, decision-making, and leadership practices
• Cultivate a professional culture of reflective practice, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Foster a school community grounded in mutual respect, belonging, and stewardship
• Recruit, hire, supervise, and evaluate faculty and staff in accordance with Quaker values
• Ensure curriculum and classroom practices reflect current research in early childhood development, emergent curriculum, and social-emotional learning
• Work in concert with senior administrators, facilities maintenance, and operations to maintain a sustainable and healthy learning environment
• Guide development efforts to cultivate and ensure the financial health of the School and preserve the School’s historical legacy
• Serve as liaison with Haverford Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends
• Build strong relationships with families through clear communication, partnership, and opportunities for involvement
• Represent the School and build partnerships with community organizations, professional networks, and Quaker institutions
• Maintain school-wide compliance with Friends Council on Education, Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools and licensing with the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Education

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Educational Leadership, or a related field (Master’s preferred)
• Preferred 5–7 years of experience working in early childhood settings, including leadership or administrative roles
• Demonstrated knowledge of child development from infancy through age five
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and cultivate community
• Experience supporting inclusive, equitable, and culturally responsive learning environments
• Ability to support the school community through change while managing multiple priorities through values-aligned decisions
• Commitment to professional practice grounded in clarity, compassion, and integrity

This is a full-time, twelve-month, salaried position with full benefits. Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest, resume, and contacts for personal reference to the HOS Search Committee c/o [email protected]

Friends School Haverford is an equal-opportunity employer. All aspects of employment

including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

Pay: $100,000.00 - $115,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person