Samuel S. Richards
Partner
Head of School Search, Senior Administrator Search
As the son of a faculty member at Holderness School (NH), Sam's future, one might say, was predetermined! How could he not be destined for a career as an independent school leader! He is most happy when immersed in understanding the rhythms of each school's unique culture, be it in the classrooms, dining halls or athletic fields.
After earning a B.A. from the University of New Hampshire, Sam went on to receive a M.Ed. from the National Louis University (IL).
His career has spanned many parts of the United States and he has worked in a variety of types of independent schools, where he has gained a rich depth of experience in many roles. He has worked at Hotchkiss School (CT), Moses Brown School (RI) and Rectory School (CT) as teacher, coach and administrator.
In his 18 years at Lake Forest Country Day School (IL), Sam had the opportunity to teach math, history and physical education, be an advisor and a four-season coach (football, soccer, basketball, hockey, tennis, baseball). He was Head of the Upper School (grades 5-9) and also Director of Technology. After Lake Forest Country Day School, Sam became Head of Middle School at Cape Cod Academy (MA) where he also found time to teach an Algebra honors course as well as taking on the responsibilities of Director of Technology, Chair of the Professional Development Committee and Chair of the Technology Advisory Committee.
Before joining Educational Directions, Sam was the Head of School at Hampstead Academy in Hampstead, New Hampshire, a PS-Grade 8 coed, day school. He may well be the only independent school head brave enough to ride the school bus in order to get to know the students and meet the parents at drop off! When Sam is not working, you will find him spending time with family, stringing a tennis racket, learning something new or getting some exercise in the form of tennis, biking, hiking or walking the dog.
Sam's educational philosophy is grounded in the belief that a school should be a community of learners and that learning should be a lifelong process. His professional experience, graduate work and continuing education give him a unique perspective towards leadership in schools. Sam is an experienced independent school educator and a lifelong learner, and he looks forward to helping schools find a leader who will make a difference in the lives of students, teachers and parents.
He will be focusing primarily on serving client schools with their senior administrative searches, institutional assessments and strategic planning.