HDS - Career Services, Careers in Private Schools

Career Services

Careers in Private Schools

Overview

Independent schools, or non-public schools governed by a board of trustees, may offer opportunities in teaching, administration, and chaplaincy. Such schools are more likely than public schools to offer courses in religion, theology, and ethics, and most do not require teachers to have a formal teaching certification. It is important to realize that the field is not flooded with new openings in religion or chaplaincy, so landing one of these positions can be a competitive process. However, an HDS degree can go a long way in making you a highly qualified candidate.

What is life at independent schools like?

Class sizes tend to be relatively small. High school students tend to be well educated, and the range of course offerings tends to be broader than at public schools. Students may come from relatively privileged backgrounds, though many private schools are making efforts to diversify their student bodies in many ways, including social class. These schools often have more international students than public schools. On average, teacher salaries are lower than in public schools. However, salaries are not as defined as they are in public school settings, and salaries vary significantly. Also, salaries may be enhanced by significant perks, such as free housing and meals. Another dimension of independent schools is the premium often placed on teacher involvement beyond classroom hours. Most faculty are expected to help with extracurricular activities, and to become members of the school's community. Boarding schools may expect availability for dorm duty or informal student counseling. Though teachers in any setting often become involved significantly in the whole lives of students, it is especially likely to happen in boarding schools. For some candidates, this is appealing; for some, it is a drawback.

What do independent schools look for in candidates?

In addition to subject matter competence, past teaching experience is important. Be it through classroom experience, tutoring, Sunday school, coaching, or even a long-term nanny position, demonstrated enthusiasm for young people and teaching is generally expected. (Remember that the HDS field education program and the Program in Religion and Secondary Education have some sites that can offer experience in this area.) Interest in leading extracurricular activities is also very important. Cultural fit, in terms of residence life and interest in living in the school's geographic location, can also be a factor. Specific qualifications and interests can be a boon for some positions. A master's degree in a subject area, or in such fields as special education, will help a teacher candidate stand out, while ordination or similar endorsement can be important for chaplain candidates. Proficiency in languages and ability to teach languages are also very helpful, especially if one is fluent in Spanish. Administrative positions will require many of the same criteria as teaching positions, but may offer more regular hours. Positions in admissions and development are sometimes the best way to get a foot in the door for administrative positions. Other types of positions oriented toward student services include guidance/college counseling, social work, and director of international life, though these typically require related experience.

How can I find and obtain a position?

As with most fields, having connections to people in the field offers the best way to find, and then be offered, positions. Another method that is often effective is to register with a recruiting organization, as these companies typically have established relationships with the schools. Several of these organizations are listed on the career section of the website of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). When working with a recruiting organization, be sure to read the materials carefully, and to find out whether they will charge you a fee or require you to work exclusively with them. Carney Sandoe & Associates and Educational Resources Group are two recruiting organizations that have had positive results representing HDS graduates, and neither requires a fee or exclusive agreement. If you are interested in working for an American School internationally, International School Services has been recommended by an HDS alumnus in the field. Listings are also available at the websites of The Association of Boarding Schools and NAIS. Recruiters may also sponsor hiring conferences in various cities, especially at the annual conference of the NAIS. These conferences can be a helpful way to meet representatives from many schools at once. As mentioned above, the field is not typically flooded with opportunities for chaplains and teachers of religion, so an ability to demonstrate a depth of expertise in one of these areas, together with a comfortable familiarity with related disciplines (i.e., history or literature), can make you more a marketable candidate. Geographical flexibility may be important as well. For candidates in any discipline, demonstrated ability and enthusiasm for leadership in extracurricular activities is often important.

What is the application process like?

Most schools hire in the early to mid spring for the following fall, which means that early November or even before is the ideal time to start notifying people in the field with whom you have connections, and/or applying and registering with recruiting organizations. Ultimately, you will likely need to provide three to five letters of reference and all academic transcripts in addition to your résumé.