NAIS Research: Summary of Findings from Independent School Governance and Leadership During COVID-19

Executive Summary

Findings from the study "Independent School Governance and Leadership During COVID-19" by Jamie Griffin, Carson Smith, and Elizabeth Stockdale, Peabody College, Vanderbilt University.

This capstone study by Jamie Griffin, Carson Smith, and Elizabeth Stockdale, Ed.D. students at Vanderbilt University, explored the existing practices of school leaders and structures within school leadership that helped prepare independent schools for the COVID-19 pandemic.

The mixed-methods study, which included both qualitative and quantitative research techniques, gathered data exploring the practices of governance structures; partnership and quality of dialogue between school heads and their board chairs; the competencies, training, and experiences that prepared school leadership for the COVID-19 pandemic; and how the COVID-19 pandemic further informs previous literature on head of school isolation and the increasing demands of the role.

Most respondents identified a positive relationship with their head of school or board chair. This partnership and increase in regular communication, on the whole, proved essential for independent schools to engage these circumstances with confidence and community support. The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a more extensive dialogue about role expectations and clarity, regular institutional and governance training opportunities, and crisis preparedness.

Additionally, this study affirmed that heads of school are facing increasing amounts of isolation and burnout along with a sense of unsustainable responsibility. The COVID-19 pandemic continued to expose and accelerate the feeling among many heads of school that the role’s demands and expectations are untenable.

A summary of the findings as reported in the researchers' dissertation follows. The summary was prepared by Margaret Anne Rowe, NAIS research analyst. 

To read the entire study, click here.

Downloadable Content

  • Summary of Findings from Independent School Governance and Leadership During COVID-19 by Jamie Griffin, Carson Smith, and Elizabeth Stockdale, Peabody College, Vanderbilt University (PDF)

Related Resources