Friends Academy Head of School Search Information for Candidates

For July 1, 2016 Independent Day S chool: Coeducational, Preschool – Grade 12 Applications Due: July 10, 2015 270 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley, NY 11560 www.fa.org

AT A GLANCE INTRODUCTION

Friends Academy has begun its search for a new Head of School to Founded: 1876 begin responsibilities on or about July 1, 2016. The next Head will Affiliation: Quaker succeed Bill Morris who has served as Head since 2003, one of the longest tenures in the school’s history. Friends Academy is in very Faculty: 119 full time and part time teachers, 93 Masters degrees strong standing, highlighted by: sound financial health, impressive and 9 Doctorates facilities and programs, a highly dedicated faculty and staff, and notable student accomplishments in many arenas. For the next Head Total Enrollment: 782 of School, the Board of Trustees seeks an individual with the highest Lower School: qualities of character, a willingness to embrace Quaker testimonies,  207 students engaging interpersonal skills, and a desire to promote and advance Middle School: the many strengths of Friends Academy.  197 students Upper School: PHILOSOPHY AND MISSION  376 students

Annual Tuition 2014-2015 Founded in 1876 by Gideon Lower School: Frost for “the children of  PlayGroup: $14,000 Friends and those similarly  PreKindergarten: $18,800 sentimented,” Friends Academy  Kindergarten: $21,800 is a Quaker, coeducational,  Grades 1-5: $25,600 independent, college prepara- Middle School: tory day school serving  Grades 6-8: $28,200 Upper School: students in early childhood  Grades 9-12: $30,600 programs through the twelfth grade. The school’s philosophy Students Receiving Financial is based on the Quaker testimonies of integrity, simplicity, patience, Assistance: Approximately 20% moderation, and peaceful resolution of conflict, as well as a belief that

Professional Affiliations: the silence and simple ministry of the “gathered meeting” brings the Cum Laude Society, presence of God into the midst of busy lives. Friends Academy is Friends Council on Education, committed to developing a diverse community whose members value Nassau County Public High School excellence in scholarly work, a genuine commitment to service and Athletic Association, National, ethical action, and a realization that every life is to be explored, Association of Independent Schools, National Association for celebrated, and enjoyed in the spirit of the Religious Society of College Admissions Counseling, Friends. State Association of Independent Schools PROGRAM

Students at Friends Academy benefit from a comprehensive program, featuring an academic curriculum that challenges them in age -appropriate ways. 1

Students in each of the divisions attend Quaker Meeting for Worship on a weekly basis. Student experiences are also enriched by their engagement in the arts, physical education, athletics, community service, technology, and library support. In these many offerings, students work with faculty and staff that are dedicated to their craft and to the best interests of their students. The faculty and staff at Friends have demonstrated a remarkable commitment to the school with many having tenures spanning two, three, and even four decades.

In the Early Childhood Program, 3- and 4-year-olds incorporate learning through play with exposure to varied areas of focus, such as Spanish, music instruction, creative movement, art, library, and physical education. Each day they learn to share with their peers, follow directions, develop fine and gross motor skills, work cooperatively in groups, and problem solve. The faculty strives to create a nurturing and warm environment, providing structure and guidance in an environment that allows children’s imaginations to soar.

The Lower School includes Kindergarten-Grade 5. These are seen as the foundation years during which each child develops a sense of self, a love of learning and a curiosity for life that enables him or her to approach new opportunities with confidence and competence. Class sizes in the Lower School are small, ranging from 12-17 students in each. Typically, there are two classes in Grades K-4 and three in Grade 5. Lower School classrooms reflect the principles of the Responsive Classroom approach, with emphasis on collaboration, social skills, multiple intelligences, community building and partnerships between home and school.

The core academic subjects for Lower School students are language arts, social studies, science, and mathematics, which incorporates the Everyday Mathematics Program at different levels. Regular instruction is also provided in music, visual arts, health, physical education, and library. Early Childhood through fourth grade students study Spanish, while fifth grade students may continue in Spanish or opt to study Chinese or French. Through an interdisciplinary approach the Lower School Global program encourages students to respect, value, and celebrate other cultures, as well as to become more socially and environmentally responsible.

The Middle School, serving students in Grades 6-8, has a carefully constructed program sensitive to the needs of young people experiencing the rapid physical, intellectual, social, and emotional growth of early adolescence in a school community built on trust and mutual respect. Within each grade level, the team of teachers meets regularly to discuss the academic, social, and emotional needs of each student. In keeping with the Quaker mission of the school, students take a semester course in Quakerism and participate in numerous community service activities.

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The academic program emphasizes the development of strong organizational and study skills, a respect for diverse learning styles, experience in cooperative learning, and the acquisition of interdisciplinary skills. The core curriculum includes the study of English, mathematics, science, and social studies. In the sixth grade, students begin the study of French or Spanish. Exploratory courses in computer, research skills, health, Quakerism, theater, ethics, band, strings, chorus, and art complement the program. Sixth, seventh, and eighth graders also separately participate in an outdoor education trip in the fall and winter, with the goal of building leadership skills and strengthening self-esteem. All students are required to take physical education. Sixth graders participate in a daily physical education program. Seventh and eighth graders have the opportunity to play on interscholastic teams, which are members of the Nassau County Athletic Association.

The Upper School curriculum is a rigorous college preparatory program rooted in the liberal arts and sciences, enhanced by programs critical for developing 21st-century skills and knowledge. Graduates are prepared to pursue their college aspirations and to use their education for the betterment of the community at large. Students are challenged to think analytically and independently and to strive for spiritual awareness, emotional well-being, and physical health.

The minimum departmental academic requirements are:

English – four years History and Social Studies – three years (four years recommended) Mathematics – three years, at least through Algebra 2/Trigonometry Sciences - three years (four years recommended), including Biology, Chemistry, and Physics World Languages and Cultures – two years, at least through level three of one language Arts – one full credit (two or more years recommended) Religion – three semesters Technology – one computer science or digital arts course Physical Education – four years, unless playing on an interscholastic team Health – two semesters College Readiness – One semester, weekly course Independent Service Project – required of all seniors

Beyond these essential academic requirements, Upper School students have the opportunity to both discover and further explore their passions among a broad array of co-curricular activities in the arts, athletics, and student clubs and organizations. Friends Academy takes great pride in the breadth and quality of its arts program that includes a wide array of visual and performance offerings set in a truly outstanding facility. Each year is filled with concerts, theatrical performances, and art exhibits that provide opportunities for the students to explore and grow their artistic expression. Student participation in interscholastic athletics is high, with the following portfolio of offerings in the respective seasons:

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Fall Winter Spring Cross-Country (coed) (boys & girls) (boys) Crew (coed) Cheerleading (girls) Crew (coed) (girls) (boys) Golf (boys & girls) Football (boys) Winter Track (coed) (boys & girls) Soccer (boys & girls) (girls) (girls) Tennis (boys) Track and Field (boys & girls)

These programs have a consistent record of both achievement and sportsmanship. The entire school community is engaged in the support of all team events, highlighted by those that take place during the homecoming weekend of the Fall Fair.

COLLEGE COUNSELING

Friends Academy students benefit from a highly professional and well respected College Counseling Office that aspires to find the “best fit” for each graduating senior. Graduates matriculate at a wide range of colleges and universities across the and overseas, including many that are recognized as very highly selective. A typical graduating class will include 90-100 seniors who will subsequently enroll at approximately 60 different institutions. Each year, a number of graduating seniors are recruited for participation in Division I, II, and III varsity athletics.

The colleges/universities at which the greatest number of Friends Academy graduates matriculated from 2012-2014 are (listed alphabetically): Boston College, Dartmouth College, Duke University, Fairfield University, George Washington University, New York University, Northeastern University, University of Pennsylvania, Syracuse University, Tulane University, and Villanova University.

GOVERNANCE

The Board of Trustees of Friends Academy is currently comprised of seventeen men and women, and almost all are current parents or alumni or both. The By-Laws express that “every effort should be made that at least one- half of those serving should be members of the Religious Society of Friends,” and it has been the Board’s practice to have Co-Presidents, one of whom is a Religious Society of Friends member. Much of the important work of the Board is done by its committees, which are: Finance (with an Investment Sub-Committee); Buildings and Grounds; Educational Policies; Advancement; Governance; Quaker Life; Compensation and Conflicts.

SCHOOL FINANCES

Friends Academy is in strong and stable financial health. The operating budget for the current school year includes expenses of $21,890,000. The primary source of revenue is tuition income, with tuition ranging from $14,000 for PlayGroup to $30,600 in the Upper School. An all inclusive tuition model was instituted during the 2014-15 academic year. Financial assistance is provided to approximately 20% of the students in the form of need-based aid or tuition remission. As of June 30, 2014, the market value of the Friends Academy’s endowment was $45,145,050. 4

DEVELOPMENT

Strong philanthropic support provides significant help to the financial health of Friends Academy and helps defray the cost of tuition. In addition to periodic capital campaigns with specific targets, the Academy relies on the generosity of its multiple constituencies to support the Annual Fund, with the results from the last three years listed below. An annual Dinner and Auction provides additional revenue, and the gross proceeds of this event were $615,000 in 2014 and $618,000 in 2015.

2011-2012 2012-2013 2013-2014 Number of Donors 881 1,011 1,074 Average Gift $1,903 $1,784 $1,761 Annual Fund Total $1,676,770 $1,803,990 $1,891,785

ADMISSIONS

Friends Academy has a healthy admissions picture, both as to the enrollment of new students and the retention of currently attending boys and girls. Students attending Friends come from a broad range of communities representing 52 different zip codes, arriving at school either by private transportation or by buses provided by local public school districts. Admissions statistics for the last three years also reflect the school’s commitment to educating a more diverse student body.

2012-2013 2013-2014 2014-2015 Total Inquiries 1,071 943 885

Total Applicants 480 371 388 Total Accepted 202 164 177 Total Newly Enrolled 148 130 120 Total Enrollment 778 780 782 % Attrition 4% 6% 4% % Students of Color 25.4% 26.5% 29.7%

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

There is a strong sense of community among the parents at Friends Academy, and parents are actively engaged in the school life of their children. The purpose of the Parent Council is to promote the welfare of Friends Academy by maintaining a close working relationship among parents, faculty, administration, staff, and trustees. All parents of current students are considered to be members of the Parent Council and are actively encouraged to attend meetings. The Parent Council plays an integral role in many school activities, from welcoming new students and their families to coordinating various events throughout the year – one notable example being the Health and Wellness Program.

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SETTING AND LOCATION

Friends Academy occupies a very attractive 65-acre campus in the hamlet of Locust Valley, New York on the North Shore of . The campus includes a mix of wooded areas and open fields, with most facilities situated around a large, open central quadrangle. Traffic patterns and parking have sensibly been located outside of the quadrangle area and normal student pathways. Jackson House, the Head of School’s residence occupies a corner section of the campus. The Matinecock Quaker Meeting House lies across the street from the school’s property.

Locust Valley is a small residential community on the North Shore of Long Island, located thirty miles from downtown New York City. It is part of the Town of Oyster Bay, historically known for Sagamore Hill, the home of Theodore Roosevelt. The community is one of rolling hills, two lane roads, and many beautiful neighborhoods. The “downtown” includes shops, boutiques, a quaint library, and beautiful public spaces, such as the Bailey and Planting Fields Arboretums.

FUTURE LEADERSHIP

Deirdre Ling and John Mackenzie of Educators’ Collaborative (EC) visited Friends Academy and conducted in-depth interviews with faculty, staff, administrators, parents, trustees, and alumni. In addition, the EC partners have received written suggestions and recommendations regarding the Head of School search. A set of very consistent themes emerged from the school’s collective voice that has characterized the strengths of Friends Academy, the challenges anticipated in the coming years, and the characteristics sought in its next Head of School.

Strengths of Friends Academy

1. Friends Academy lives its Mission. A pervasive commitment to Quaker testimonies guides the school and the relationships among community members. 2. Students, faculty, staff, and parents contribute to and benefit from a strong sense of community, with many students feeling that the school is a second home. 3. Abundant opportunities are provided for students to participate in a wide range of curricular and co-curricular activities by which each may develop a stronger sense of self. 4. Ample and well-managed financial resources enable the school to provide broad programmatic support, to recruit and retain highly capable faculty and staff, and to support comprehensive professional development opportunities. 5. Faculty and staff members enjoy a strong sense of collegiality, and their dedication to the best interests of students is recognized and appreciated. 6. The school’s culture is one that encourages and supports the emergence of fresh perspectives and new educational initiatives. 7. Friends has made an impressive commitment to service, diversity, and social justice. It continues to refine its programs, ensuring its practices are aligned with its ideals. 8. Located in an attractive setting, the superb facilities are well aligned with the school’s learning goals. Especially notable in this regard are the libraries, arts spaces, and athletic facilities. 9. There exists a strong sense that students are well known individually and appreciated for who they are. 6

Challenges for the Next Head of School

1. Strengthen the school-wide understanding of and dedication to Quaker testimonies and what they mean for the school’s identity in the face of countervailing external and internal pressures. 2. In a school where good ideas are abundant, carefully strive to prioritize which initiatives realistically can be undertaken at any given time. 3. Initiate a comprehensive program to assure that all aspects of the academic program reflect best practices in independent schools as to teaching, learning, and preparedness, including curricular alignment and faculty interconnectedness across divisions. 4. Building on recent changes in administrative personnel, mold together a leadership team that will assure the highest levels of faculty/staff recruitment, evaluation, and professional development. 5. Deepen and ingrain the school’s admirable forward progress on diversity and inclusion with students, faculty, staff and families. 6. In collaboration with the Board of Trustees, review and update the school’s strategic plan.

Characteristics of Next Head of School

Ideally the next Head of School will be a leader who:

1. Is seen by others as a learner and a teacher, and who, by example, nurtures and elevates the intellectual climate of the campus. 2. Understands and appreciates Quaker testimonies and what they contribute to the life of an educational community. 3. Possesses the kind of authentic personal nature and empathetic listening skills that enable him/her to be seen by others as someone who is caring and approachable. 4. Is transparent in making and articulating decisions, while simultaneously being respectful of confidential information. 5. Has a high level of energy and a keen sense of personal/professional balance, so as to be able to thrive in a position with lengthy days and multi-faceted challenges. 6. Will be a visible presence around the school in support of a wide range of activities, where he/she can actively engage with various members of the school community. 7. Is an effective fundraiser, by virtue of engaging interpersonal skills as well as by his/her belief in the history of Friends Academy and its promise for the future. 8. Possesses excellent communication skills, both oral and written, and communicates in a timely manner. 9. Evidences a pastoral nature that enables the school community to bond together and find strength during difficult times. 10. Has a firm grasp of the business aspects of educational institutions, is a strategic thinker, and effectively manages personnel. 11. Is aware of and eager to innovate the use of technology in the educational space.

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SUMMARY OF THE SEARCH PROCESS

Candidates interested in this position are asked to submit the following materials by Friday, July 10, 2015:

 EC Cover/Summary Sheet (Contact Deirdre Ling or John Mackenzie for that document)  A cover letter to the Search Committee  Résumé  Statement of educational or personal philosophy  A list of five or more references with contact information (including phone numbers and email addresses)

Application materials are to be sent, electronically via email, as a single WORD document or PDF to:

Deirdre A. Ling, Partner AND John M. Mackenzie, Partner Educators’ Collaborative, LLC Educators’ Collaborative, LLC [email protected] [email protected] or [email protected]

Candidates are encouraged to speak personally with Deirdre Ling (508-423-1605) or John Mackenzie (614-207-1006).

In July, the Search Committee plans to identify a preliminary list of candidates whom they will interview. From this group they will narrow the selection to candidates who will be invited to the school for further interviews. The trustees expect to reach a decision and appoint a new Head of School by mid-October 2015, with the term of office to commence on or about July 1, 2016. Salary and benefits are competitive. A campus home is provided as a residence for the Head of School and family. Friends Academy is an equal opportunity employer.

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