Keith Country Day School is pleased to announce it has named Charo Chaney and Ashleigh Van Thiel as Head of School Co-Leads. The pair bring more than 20 years of combined leadership experience to this innovative new role.
Keith’s Board of Directors voted unanimously in favor of a dual leadership model, appointing the well-qualified, highly experienced and local team of Chaney and Van Thiel to lead the school, effective immediately.
“We are delighted to have Charo and Ashleigh join the Keith family,” said Rebecca Epperson, President, Keith Country Day School Board of Trustees. “Both leaders are very well-respected in their professions and in the Rockford community, and will be a great asset to our school.”
The co-leadership plan is detailed and clear to provide students, families and teachers with a specific point person for any need to ensure the best decisions are made quickly and effectively. It will also provide enhanced support for students at all levels through focused support, guidance and innovation.
Chaney’s responsibilities will include management of Keith’s Upper School (fifth through 12th grades) including specialties in those grades, facilities, sports, extra-curriculars, interim sessions, summer programs, college counseling, student performance data, graduation, and student and staff retention.
Van Thiel will manage Keith’s Lower School (prekindergarten through fourth grades) including specialties in those grades, office staff, finances, fund development, alumni relations, school programs, student performance data, student recruitment, and student and staff retention.
The long-standing professional relationship and established trust between the leaders will allow them to implement initiatives that include the consistent feedback, support and professional development opportunities that our teachers deserve and the very best academic opportunities and cultural experiences that Keith students and families expect.
Top universities and education publications rave about co-leadership models, as schools across the country continue to find success. An investment in dual leadership at Keith will provide an additional level of administrative support for teachers, allowing them to make their time in the classroom a top priority. It will also provide enhanced support for students at all levels through focused support, guidance and innovation.
Both individuals are well-qualified, highly experienced and passionate about Keith School. Together, their vision and leadership will enhance the students’ education, positively impact teacher development and ensure the continued stability of the school.
About Keith Country Day School
Celebrating more than 100 years of educating children, Keith Country Day School proudly stands as the premier college-preparatory school in the northern Illinois region. Keith has a rich tradition of preparing students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 in academic rigor, character development and leadership skills. Keith’s mission is to prepare children for lives of meaning and purpose.
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