A few benefits an internal candidate brings:
Familiarity with the school and its opportunities and challenges
Established relationships
Clarity about where support may be needed
Avoidance of the cost and disruption of a comprehensive search process
The Board of Trustees has a few options in considering internal candidates:
Don’t do it … because the bench strength isn’t there or “fresh eyes” are needed
Welcome internal candidates into a comprehensive search process, generally with an understanding that internal candidates will be interviewed by the Search Committee
Evaluate and possibly appoint an internal candidate prior to launching a full, comprehensive search
“Thank you for being the firm that thinks creatively about search!“
Former Head of School / Delaware
In EduDx’s experience assisting schools with option #3, we have planned and implemented an evaluation for the internal candidate that left no doubt s/he had experienced a fair, transparent, inclusive, and rigorous process.
However, planning the right process for possible internal succession can be challenging. We welcome your call for a free consultation about what might be the right approach for your school.
