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Head of School Search

Shaping the vision and expectations for our next leader.

Country Day is stronger than ever. Our students are thriving both inside and outside the classroom, our exceptional re-enrollment rate of 97%, and continued rising admissions applications speak to the demand for the quality of education and sense of community Country Day provides. Our dedicated faculty and staff are outstanding, our financial position solid, marked by record-breaking giving. We are committed to selecting an exceptional leader who reflects Country Day's mission and key values. 

As we begin our search for a new Head of School, our priority is ensuring that every voice is heard, every perspective respected, and every member of our community contributes meaningfully to shaping our future.

As we embark on this journey together, we will share updates on this page, including all messages. Your feedback throughout the process is critical, and we appreciate your partnership as we find our school’s next leader.

Messages and Updates

The Search Process

  • In February 2024, the Board initiated a thorough, national search for our next Head of School who will assume duties for the 2025–26 school year. 
  • A 10-member Search Committee has been assembled to spearhead this important endeavor. Leading the committee is Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, bringing deep expertise in education as a college president, and Stanton McCullough, whose executive committee service and strong community ties enrich our efforts. 
  • After careful consideration of various firms and drawing on insights from past experiences, the Search Committee selected the highly experienced and respected executive search firm of Carney Sandoe and Associates. Their expertise and industry connections will aid us in conducting a dynamic, thorough, and inclusive process, aiming to attract a diverse array of talented candidates while ensuring the right match for our school.
  • Senior consultant and a former Head of School Mark Davis will lead the firm's search team, together with fellow senior consultant Karen Whitaker and Vice President of Education Leadership Services Darryl Ford.

 

Search Committee

Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, Co-Chair 
Stanton McCullough, Co-Chair 

Bill Zimmern '95, Chair, Board of Trustees
Scott Stevens, Past Chair, Board of Trustees
Shanon Jones, Board of Trustees
Pontea Dixon, Board of Trustees
Sam Farnham, Board of Trustees
Sammy Hood '96, Board of Trustees
Kristin Hair '95, 2023-24 Parents' Association President
Andrew Tate, Secretary-Treasurer, Board of Trustees

Carney Sandoe & Associates

Executive Search Firm
Mark Davis, Senior Consultant
Karen Whitaker, Senior Consultant
Darryl Ford, Vice President, Education Leadership Services

For questions, please e-mail us to share any thoughts, feedback, or concerns. The input of our community is instrumental in shaping the vision and expectations for our next leader.

Community Involvement

  • The Head of School Search Committee, in collaboration with Carney Sandoe & Associates, engaged with stakeholders from across the Country Day community, including parents, students, alumni, faculty and staff, and the Board of Trustees.
  • Our community participated in a survey seeking input on the important qualities necessary for Country Day’s next Head of School and received more than 575 responses (well above the average response rate).
  • Our partners from Carney Sandoe visited Country Day in February and engaged with more than 125 community members from a diverse range of stakeholders, including parents, students, administrators, faculty, alumni, and trustees. These interactions provided invaluable insights into the unique character and culture of Country Day. 
  • The finalized position description for the Head of School search reflects the collective aspirations of our community and underscores our commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. 

Frequently Asked Questions