We need more members and more good people coming together to celebrate the amazing work Pre-K-8 educators are doing each and every day. We transform lives on a daily basis, and not many organizations can claim that type of impact.

ESHA is a community of leaders who support one another in their work. Being a Head of School for Pre-K-8 independent education can be overwhelming and isolating. ESHA, and especially the members who comprise the organization, has been a lifeline for me more than once and I am beyond grateful to be a part of this organization.

The role of an elementary school Head is broad and more wide-ranging than a high school Head. Elementary school Heads need a different kind of support and atmosphere for camaraderie than high school Heads… I’m encouraged that ESHA is looking forward and trying to support members, as well as the elementary school industry for independent education.

Imagine a future where a head is appointed to his first or her first headship at a K-8 school and that person realizing the truly unique models of operations that go into effect.

They can come to ESHA and understand and receive resources around why our cultures of philanthropy are different, but can be just as deep and bountiful if approached in the correct way.

When I found ESHA, I found something that I had never found anywhere else. I found a group where I knew when I showed up, we would share many of the same challenges, we would have some of the same experiences, and we would be able to support one another with the work that we're doing.

I came to rely on this group as a place to find others that were wrestling with some of the uniquely specific things to elementary schools.

I've valued the sense of belonging that ESHA offers. For me, ESHA is a group of colleagues across the country who are my most trusted advisors and thinking partners because our work is completely aligned - in elementary schools - with specific needs and joys related to this age group of students and parents. 

I really love ESHA because it is a place where I can connect with other people who love the hug of a kindergartener or enjoy counseling families through the turbulent waters of parenthood.

I appreciate that it's a national organization as opposed to connecting with peer schools in my area, which has a lot of value.

We have entered a time where the value proposition of K-8 has never been more important. I love everything you’ve done… As one professional to another, there’s many things vying for my time, but the way you’re thinking now is really important… I think you all are onto something!