The Thirteen Attributes of a Head of School.

I don't know whether ISM had the Thirteen Attributes of God from Parshat Ki Tisa in mind when it prepared this, or what statement ISM was intending when it chose the number 13 to apply to a Head of School, but the following is a list ISM created regarding the 13 responsibilities of a Head of School:

1. Board relationships
Serve as the chief liaison between the school and the Board. He/she keeps the Board informed of pertinent matters at the school, and educates the faculty/staff about the Board's activities.

2. Organization
Create and organize the management team and work to produce smooth day-to-day operations.

3. Planning and analysis
Assist the Board with their strategic and long range planning while also developing tactical plans with the management team. He/she must also stay abreast of trends in education and school management.

4. Programs
Either assist with or oversee the design, implementation, and administration of student programs and services appropriate to the school's mission and the needs of those enrolled. In addition, the Head must help set standards of participation and achievement in each category: academics, co-curriculars, and character development.

5. Personnel
Define the school's teaching and non-teaching needs, hire appropriate personnel, set standards for growth and performance, and foster harmony among all staff members.

6. Program and service support
Administer efforts to provide support for academic programs, in such areas as facilities, equipment, etc., and assure that comprehensive school records are maintained as required by the Board and by law.

7. Environment
Work to create a positive environment (physical and emotional), which includes ensuring campus safety, administering rules and procedures for students, and promoting harmonious relationships among the administration, faculty, staff, and students.

8. Finance
Duties include working with the Board's Finance Committee on financial plans and the annual budget, working with the Business Manager to maintain the smooth financial operation of the school, and helping set tuition rates and salary increases annually.

9. Enrollment and recruitment
Recommend enrollment objectives with respect to numbers, character, and quality; and oversee the implementation of marketing and scholarship programs.

10. Fund raising
Advise the Board on fund-raising needs and plans, become personally involved in cultivation and solicitation for major gifts, and maintain a good working relationship with the Development Office.

11. Constituent relations
Help encourage and maintain meaningful relationships with parents, alumni, past parents, special interest groups, and the community.

12. Institutional image
The main responsibility is to function as a spokesperson for the school and to become a personification of the institution.

13. Plant management
Supervise the operation and maintenance of all school facilities, approve expenditures, and recommend necessary changes.

Thanks to Committee member Leora Raikin for obtaining this information.