Dear Island School Community,
On March 25, Amanda Ward shared with our community she will be stepping down as Head of School at the conclusion of this school year. On behalf of the Board, we extend our sincere gratitude for Amanda’s leadership and for the many contributions she has made to The Island School during her tenure. She has served the school with professionalism, integrity, and a deep and abiding commitment to our students and community.
Amanda has guided The Island School through a period of significant challenge and growth. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she worked closely with faculty and staff to reimagine how school could safely and meaningfully continue, including the creation of outdoor classroom experiences and the return to in-person learning in fall 2020. Her steady leadership helped preserve continuity, connection, and stability for our students and families during an uncertain time.
In the years since, Amanda has continued to strengthen the school’s foundation for the future. She collaborated with the community to develop a Diversity Statement and partnered with the Board to establish long-term financial and facilities plans. She also worked with the Board to refine our vision and mission, ensuring clear and shared language to guide the school’s work moving forward:
• Vision: Children at The Island School become lifelong learners with a strong sense of self, an appreciation for community, and the skills to thrive.
• Mission: The Island School provides a flexible learning environment where each child is known and celebrated.
Amanda also led the school through re-accreditation with the Northwest Association of Independent Schools, engaging in a collaborative process that affirmed the quality and strength of our program. She leaves The Island School well positioned for the future, with a clear strategic direction, strong financial reserves, and a solid foundation on which to build.
Perhaps most importantly, Amanda has brought a deep personal commitment to the life of the school and to the children we serve. Her presence, attentiveness, and care have had a lasting impact on our community, and we are grateful for the example of leadership she has set.
The Board of Trustees is now beginning the next phase of our transition planning. In the coming weeks, we will initiate a search for an Interim Head of School to serve through the next school year. At the same time, we will begin a thoughtful and inclusive process during the 2026–2027 school year to identify the school’s next long-term Head of School. We are committed to keeping the community informed throughout this process.
We are grateful to Amanda for her service and for all she has given to The Island School. Opportunities to recognize and celebrate her contributions will be shared in the months ahead.
With Gratitude,
Greer Dunn
Board President & Current Parent
