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St. Mary's Episcopal School - Community Questionnaire

St. Mary's recently initiated the search for our next Head of School. The Search Committee requests input from the SMS community. The information collected in this survey will be used by our Search Consultants to provide a comprehensive, personalized profile as we continue to consider candidates for this position. Responses will treated as confidential and respondents will not be identified. Please respond by December 5, 2025.
1.Please indicate the importance of the following professional qualities in the new Head of School.
Most important
Very important
Of some concern
Not a concern
Independent school administrative experience
Business/Financial experience and acumen
Delegation and team-building skills
Understanding of Episcopal identity and values
Skill in recruiting, supporting, and retaining excellent faculty
Commitment to fostering girls’ leadership and confidence
Fundraising and advancement experience
Strategic, long-range planning abilities
Ability to promote and represent the school effectively
Entrepreneurial and forward-thinking mindset
2.Please indicate the importance of the following personal qualities in the new Head of School.
Most important
Very important
Of some concern
Not a concern
Strong communication skills
Warm/approachable personality
Ease in making fair and firm decisions
Ability to bring people together for a common purpose
Innovation in thinking
Openness to diverse views and new ideas
Passion for education
Ability to inspire those around him/her
3.What are the major challenges a new Head will need to address in the next 3 years?
Most important
Very important
Of some concern
Not a concern
Increasing enrollment and strengthening retention
Enhancing the academic program to inspire girls’ intellectual curiosity and confidence
Nurturing a strong, inclusive sense of community
Recruiting and retaining exceptional faculty and staff
Supporting the administrative team
Clearly articulating the School’s value and distinct advantages
Expanding fundraising and advancement efforts
Ensuring a smooth transition as a new Head
Upholding high standards of student conduct and character
Advancing belonging initiatives
Managing budgets and controlling costs responsibly
Honoring and living out the School’s mission and core values
Continuing thoughtful strategic planning for the School’s future
Remaining competitive within the independent school landscape
Upholding the School’s standards of excellence in all areas
4.What distinguishes St. Mary's from other private schools in our region? (check all that apply)
5.What are your hopes for St. Mary's future direction? (check all that apply)
6.What three words best describe St. Mary's Episcopal School?
7.Please share additional thoughts that might help the Search Consultant and Search Committee as they consider the qualities and qualifications most important in the next Head of School. If you know someone you believe would be a strong candidate, please include their name and contact information below.
8.Please indicate your association(s) with St. Mary's. Check all that apply.
9.Name (optional)
Current Progress,
0 of 9 answered