Lakeside School

Dear Lakeside School community members,

We are pleased to share an update on the search for Lakeside’s next head of school.

Over the past several weeks, our search consultants from Carney, Sandoe & Associates have spent time on campus and in conversation with members of the Lakeside community, including students, faculty, staff, parents/guardians, trustees, and alums. In addition, many of you contributed thoughtful input through the community survey. We are grateful for the time, candor, and care reflected in this collective engagement.

The community response to the survey was strong and wide-ranging, underscoring the depth of commitment to Lakeside and its future. Across constituencies, several themes emerged with clarity and consistency. Respondents spoke with pride about Lakesiders’ intellectual curiosity, the strength and dedication of its faculty, and the richness of a community grounded in trust, respect, and meaningful relationships. There was also a deep appreciation for the school’s long-standing commitment to community, equity, and belonging, as well as its culture of thoughtful innovation. Finally, there was a strong consensus that the students of Lakeside exude a joy for learning and a fundamental kindness.

Looking ahead, community members emphasized the importance of sustaining Lakeside’s educational excellence while continuing to foster a student experience that is both challenging and joyful. Many highlighted the opportunity to further strengthen connections across divisions and constituencies, reinforcing a cohesive “one school” community. Others pointed to the importance of thoughtful leadership in navigating a rapidly evolving educational landscape, including advances in technology and the continued development of experiential and student-centered learning.

In terms of leadership qualities, respondents expressed a desire for a head of school who is intellectually curious, collaborative, and deeply engaged in the life of the school. The community values a leader who communicates with clarity and authenticity, builds trust across constituencies, and brings both strategic vision and sound judgment to the role. Experience leading complex institutions, supporting and developing talented educators, and partnering effectively with a board were also frequently cited as important.

These themes—gathered from both the survey and the consultants’ wide-ranging interviews with constituents—have directly shaped the position description now being shared with prospective candidates. You can read the position description here. The document reflects the community’s shared priorities and articulates the opportunities and responsibilities that will define the next head of school’s leadership.

We will continue to provide updates as the search progresses. In the meantime, we remain grateful for the engagement and partnership of the Lakeside community throughout this important process.

Sincerely,

Melinda Morbeck Lewison ’90, P’22 ’24

Lakeside School Board of Trustees

Head of School Search Committee Chair