Last summer, my director of enrollment management encouraged me to read the book Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. While I initially approached the book from the lens of enhancing the experience of our new families, upon completing it, I quickly realized that it was quite applicable to me, specifically as I lead the school. The premise coincided beautifully as we were drafting our Strategic Plan: “What distinguishes SFE from any other school in your local market?” And then it hit me, this year, St. Francis’s superpower would be being the most hospitable school in the city in all aspects of school life, including board governance.
Choose to pursue perfection.
I saw this year as an opportunity to push the boundaries of achieved excellence to attainable perfection. To solicit the board’s support, it was imperative to communicate my vision, share examples of tangible practices, and provide professional development (either at meetings or a retreat). While most of us bring consultants to speak on governance or legal issues, we also had a presenter on Episcopal Identity and what it looks like in our school. Additionally, when professional development is conducted with the entire board, it builds relationships among trustees and fosters a shared understanding of roles and responsibilities. From generative discussions on relevant readings (similar to those required of the leadership team) or sessions on faith-informed governance, board culture, data-driven decision-making for setting enrollment goals and tuition costs, it is also essential to find intentional moments to build relationships through fellowship of learning, brainstorming, laughing, and simply having fun (minute to win it games or karaoke are the best!).
Choose to connect.
With a common shared language and vision and trusting relationships, solidifying support becomes easier. As their only employee, it seems intuitive that they will get to know you. However, be intentional in connecting with your trustees by sharing a bit of yourself and your journey into this space. Invite them for a private campus tour, coffee, or lunch, and when they invite you to a show, game, or dinner, try to attend. While you want to have authentic conversations, have a few questions in your back pocket to move the conversation forward. Learn about their passions, families, work, connection to the school, and their “why” for being on the board. Find that trustee, likely either the board chair, rector, or a member of the head of school’s support team, with whom you can be both honest and vulnerable, without fear of questioning your competence or agenda. This unified capital offers a sincere investment for when the school faces hardships together. Your role is to help trustees understand that a crisis is a crisis for the community, not just the head, so the best way to support the community is by supporting you. This commitment will pay dividends in strengthening and guiding communication, culture, and decision-making when complex matters arise. Remember, your connection with the trustees is not just a formality, but a crucial part of the school’s mission and success.
Choose to lead.
As heads of school, we have the opportunity to lead, educate, and inspire our trustees. While they are successful in their field, we are the education experts who must also be knowledgeable in law, finance, budgets, investments, construction, risk management, community relations, admissions, conflict resolution, and Episcopal identity. You will be most successful when you know your goals and expectations. Therefore, use your strategic plan as a blueprint for the work ahead and request an annual review. Ask for feedback and suggestions, and remind your trustees that, like them, you don’t like surprises. Be prepared and inform your trustees of what to expect and how to manage crises collectively. Remember, they are learning too, so use your gifts, share gratitude, and offer grace.
Choose to find joy.
As a leader, it’s crucial to communicate your needs to your trustees. This includes advocating for time to retreat and reconnect, which is essential for personal renewal. These moments of reflection allow you to pause, breathe, celebrate, and share the spirit of joy and renewal in our work. By reminding your trustees that you can be the best head of school when you are best supported, you reinforce the importance of open communication and self-advocacy in leadership. Remember, you asked for your job, and God blessed you with it. So, let’s embrace His offerings and remember that we are blessed to be a blessing to our schools. When given the choice, choose to pursue perfection, connect with others, lead with confidence, and find joy! We are indeed valuable assets and gracious contributors within Episcopal school communities.
Dr. Chelsea Pope Collins is Head of School at St. Francis Episcopal School in Houston, TX.