The Head of School of a large educational institution like Andover requires far more than it used to. Many have equated Mrs. Chase’s new role to that of a CEO, rather than a school principal. Some critique her for being off-campus too much, busy fundraising all over the world. Others take issue with the rising compensation of Heads of School, though few would claim that Mrs. Chase is not deserving. This week, The Phillipian takes an in-depth look at our Head of School and her developing role at PA. It is unfortunate that Mrs. Chase is not around more. In an ideal world, the Head of School would be someone who knew all the students and could be involved in our day-to-day lives; someone who is constantly tuned into the community discussion and could react quickly and wisely to prevent conflicts. But through no fault of Mrs. Chase, her changing role requires her to maintain a broader focus. Among many things, Mrs. Chase is responsible for an endowment as large as that of many colleges, a nationally renowned art gallery, a brilliant, devoted faculty, and a bright (but often critical) student body. In order to preserve the amenities that we take for granted, Mrs. Chase must campaign all over the world. After all, we have Exeter to compete with. (Currently they are in the lead, endowment-wise, giving Mrs. Chase all the more reason for her efforts.) Mrs. Chase may seem out of touch, but her efforts to connect have been admirable. She has hosted discussions and cluster munches in her home, attended Philomaethean Forums and met with other student groups. She speaks weekly at All-School Meetings, comes to sports games and drops in on important programs like the “Broadening Horizons” event two weeks ago. Though she is busy, Mrs. Chase spends most of her time here with us. The notion that Mrs. Chase receives an oversized compensation is not emphatically unjustified, but flawed. The market for Heads of School is highly competitive, and salary, unfortunately, is a main attraction. It’s a pity that faculty cannot be so well rewarded. As James Wickenden documented in his 2005 report, Phillips Academy faces many challenges, both inside and out. To balance both alumni affairs and student and faculty relations is a difficult task, but one that will determine the future of this Academy. Mrs. Chase’s role requires a level of skill, intelligence, tenacity and endurance that could not be expected of any ordinary educator. We are fortunate to have her presence, but we also hope that she continues to strive for a better balance between the alumni outside Andover and the needs of faculty and students here. This editorial represents the views of The Phillipian Editorial Board CXXX.
