How School First Supports Schools, Administrators, and Candidates
In education, finding the right fit makes all the difference. The right educator can transform a classroom. The right leader can elevate an entire school community. And the right match between schools and candidates creates long-lasting success for both.
At School First, we believe that matching great people with great schools is more than a placement process, it’s a partnership. Whether your school is seeking exceptional candidates, strategic enrollment management support, or leadership coaching, our team is here to help.
We work with both independent schools and candidates across the country to foster connections that align with each school’s culture, mission, and goals.
Supporting Schools with Recruitment and Placement
Every school is unique. That’s why our process begins with deep listening. We take the time to understand your school’s community, culture, and values so we can represent your story authentically to potential candidates.
Our success recruiting for day and boarding schools nationwide is rooted in this relationship-first approach. Through extensive focus groups and individualized attention, we ensure that every search reflects your school’s distinct identity.
Whether your needs include:
- Enrollment management and admission coaching
- Head of School or senior administrative coaching
- Faculty and staff recruitment support
- Retained leadership searches
School First provides expert guidance to help you find candidates who are not only highly qualified, but who also share your vision for growth and excellence.
Our goal is to relieve your team of the time-consuming burden of screening resumes and vetting applicants, allowing you to focus on what matters most - leading your school.
Helping Candidates Find Their Next Chapter
For candidates, the right school environment can ignite passion, align professional goals, and open new pathways for impact.
At School First, we work closely with each candidate to understand their experience, goals, and values. Our consultants are deeply committed to matching inspiring educators and leaders with schools that align with their mission and professional calling.
We take pride in making every candidate feel valued and supported. From coaching through the interview process to helping articulate strengths and fit, we’re here every step of the way.
Our candidates often describe our process as both personal and empowering, and that’s exactly how we believe it should be.
Hard-to-Fill Positions and “Unicorn” Candidates
In every field, there are roles that require something special and people who are truly one of a kind.
At School First, we specialize in connecting schools with exceptional, high-impact professionals who bring rare skills and leadership potential to the table. Whether you’re searching for a seasoned administrator, an innovative educator, or a specialist in a niche area, our bespoke search services are designed to meet even the most specific needs.
We think of ourselves almost as educational talent agents, carefully vetting candidates and brokering meaningful matches that elevate schools and inspire communities. Our work continues beyond when the placement is made through ongoing relationships built on trust and mutual success.
Educational Coaching and Leadership Development
In addition to search and placement, we offer tailored coaching for school leaders and senior administrators. Our coaching services are designed to strengthen leadership teams, refine communication and decision-making, and help schools navigate transitions effectively.
We also offer admission and enrollment management coaching to help schools meet their strategic goals while maintaining the heart of their mission.
Partner with School First
At School First, we know that education is, at its core, about relationships. That’s why every partnership we form is built on trust, collaboration, and respect.
Our consultants bring decades of experience on both sides of the admissions and recruitment table. We understand what it takes to build thriving school communities, and we are honored to play a role in helping them grow.
Whether you’re a school leader seeking enrollment or hiring support, or a candidate searching for your next opportunity in education, School First is here to help you take the next step with confidence.
Let’s build something meaningful together.
Click here to learn more about how we can support your school, your leadership team, or your career in education.