Head of School

Mansfield, Ohio, Discovery School seeks a thoughtful, collaborative, and highly engaged Head of School to lead its next chapter. This is an opportunity to shape the future of a distinctive independent school where curiosity, imagination, perseverance, and the joy of learning guide each day. Set within 40 acres of woodland in Mansfield, Ohio, Discovery serves children from preschool through sixth grade. Our secular, progressive approach combines strong academics, inquiry-driven learning, meaningful relationships, and time spent exploring the natural world. The next Head will join a dedicated faculty, an involved Board of Governors, and families who believe deeply in the school’s mission. The successful candidate will be an accessible, hands-on educational leader who believes in children, supports educators, and connects authentically with families. A strong understanding of progressive and inquiry-based education, a collaborative leadership style, operational and financial judgment, and an ability to communicate the school’s value will be especially important. Familiarity with the IB PYP and independent school leadership would be valuable. Candidates should be able to...

Champion Discovery’s identity as a secular, independent school distinguished by progressive education, the IB PYP, experiential learning, and outdoor exploration. Partner with faculty and staff to sustain a positive professional culture, excellent teaching, and strong student support. Deepen the integration of the school’s woodland campus into teaching, learning, and community life. Build on the engagement of families, the parent association, the Board, and community partners. Guide the implementation and ongoing evaluation of the school’s long-term strategic plan. Strengthen enrollment, communications, and philanthropic relationships to support the school’s future. Understand and responsibly manage the school’s combination of funding sources, including Ohio nonpublic school scholarship programs and other state-supported mechanisms. Review and strengthen admissions, student counseling, learning support, and administrative workflows within a lean staffing model. Build on current enrollment while increasing awareness of Discovery’s educational value and reaching families who would benefit from its approach. Align people, resources, and priorities while protecting the school’s mission, relationships, and educational quality. $90,000 - $120,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications.