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February 26, 2026
Board Leadership in Head of School Contract Negotiations
At some point in your tenure as Board Chair, you will likely take the lead in negotiating a Head of School contract. Whether you’re hiring a new Head or renewing the agreement for your current Head, this work is about far more than compensation, benefits, or risk mitigation. Thoughtful contract negotiation sets the tone for trust, clarity of expectations, mutual support, and a strong, sustainable partnership. How this experience unfolds for both parties can shape your Chair–Head relationship long after the ink dries.
To help Chairs navigate these pivotal responsibilities with more confidence and competence, ISCA is offering a two-part webinar series led by HOS contract expert, Peter Commons of Commons & Commons LLP:
Thursday, March 5
New Head of School Appointment Contracts: Laying the Groundwork for Success
Appointing a new Head is a pivotal leadership moment that sets the stage for long-term success and stability. In this session, Peter Commons will walk through how to develop and negotiate an initial Head of School contract that supports a smooth transition and a productive partnership. He will clarify the Chair’s role in the process, explain when and how to involve the search firm and legal counsel, and share practical strategies for structuring a term sheet and final agreement that fosters alignment from day one — whether your candidate is internal or external.
Tuesday, March 10
HOS Contract Renewals: From Negotiation to Collaboration
Renewing a Head’s contract is one of the most consequential responsibilities a Chair holds — and an opportunity to strengthen the Chair–Head partnership while reinforcing shared priorities and long-term leadership stability. In this session, Peter Commons will offer practical strategies to elevate the renewal process into a strategic collaboration, balancing support for your Head with the protections and sustainability your school requires. He’ll cover how to initiate and structure renewal conversations, when to engage counsel, and how to manage contract logistics for a smooth, transparent, and well-governed process.
For many Chairs, contract negotiations can feel unfamiliar or even mysterious — particularly if it’s your first time leading the process. Yet few responsibilities carry greater long-term impact. The way a board structures and conducts Head of School contract negotiations directly influences leadership continuity, institutional stability, and the school’s ability to attract and retain the right Head while ensuring appropriate protections are in place for the school. This webinar series provides the practical guidance Chairs need to approach this responsibility with confidence and sound governance judgment.
Click on the links below to register.
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