What is an Independent School?

“Independent” schools are funded by tuition, not by tax dollars. They are not-for-profit corporations governed by self-perpetuating boards of directors, not by the government (public schools), by a diocese (parochial schools), or by private owners (proprietary schools).

Each independent school is free to develop its own educational mission and philosophy and to enroll “mission-appropriate” students whose abilities and interests are well suited for the school’s culture, programs, and methods. Schools seek teachers who are academically gifted, who connect and communicate well with students, and who contribute enthusiastically to school life.

Independent schools come in a variety of flavors—single-sex and coed; boarding and day; rural, urban, and suburban. They maintain high standards and expectations and they offer wide-ranging athletic, artistic, service, and leadership opportunities.

Why teach at an Independent School?

Teaching at independent schools means building close relationships in small classes, innovating and collaborating, inspiring discovery, and focusing on learning rather than standardized testing.  Dedicated teachers, supportive alumni, and devoted parents are committed to preparing young people for lives of leadership and service.  Success is more than lofty test scores and college acceptances.  It’s seeing students tap into their talents and aspirations.

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Latest News

  • Head of School Opportunity

    ST Search is assisting Deerfield-Windsor School in its search for the next Head of School. Deerfield-Windsor is a co-educational, independent day school serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade.

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  • News Flash!

    ST Search was delighted to assist Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School (Joplin, MO) in securing their next Director of College Counseling, Jon Emery. 

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  • Athletic Director Opportunity in Philadelphia

    ST Search is assisting William Penn Charter School in the search for its next Director of Athletics. Founded in 1689, Penn Charter is the oldest Quaker school in the world and serves over 1,000 students in pre-K through grade 12.

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  • NEW! Arts Assessments

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  • Recent Administrative Placements!

    We are pleased to share our new page for recent Administrative Placements. Follow the link below!

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  • Head Coach Mentoring

    Head Coaches and their highly visible sports teams are front-line representatives of the school and its mission. Ensure your coaches are equipped to lead with ST Athletics' sport-specific mentoring service. 

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    This majestic creature symbolizes many different things in cultures around the world, but we selected it as our icon because the elephant and the agency have key traits in common.

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  • Retained Search Nationwide!

    We are delighted to announce that ST Search, a division of Southern Teachers, is now conducting retained searches nationally.

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  • Teacher Job Board is Now Available!

    The ST Teacher Job Board, which lists teaching jobs at K-12 private schools across America, is live! Schools may post a job for free, and interested candidates will be directed to the school's website to apply. 

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