Welcome to Head-Royce School
Founded in 1887, Head-Royce is a nationally recognized K-12 independent school which offers a challenging program focused on educating the whole child. Our world-class faculty bring unique perspectives from a wide range of experiences, and share a deep commitment to inspiring our students to become lifelong learners.
Living Our Values
Living Our Values
The mission of the Head-Royce School is to develop students of character, intellect, and creativity.
We accomplish this through our exceptional academic program that seeks to:
- develop critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills
- foster integrity, ethical behavior, compassion, and a sense of humor
- promote responsibility and leadership
- respect individual and cultural differences, and diversity of thought
- nurture creativity, curiosity, and imagination
- encourage joyful, healthy living, a love of nature and physical fitness
Our Head of School
Our Head of School
Appointed in 2022, Rachel E. Skiffer is the 12th Head of School in our 135-year history. A dynamic and visionary leader, Rachel has a deep background both in large traditional independent schools as well as small, innovative organizations. As an executive administrator, Rachel brings direct experience in admissions, belonging and DEI work, curricular development, competency-based assessment, financial stewardship, community building and strategic planning. Rachel served as the Head of School at Khan Lab School in Palo Alto, Dean of Policy and Strategic Planning at Phillips Academy in Andover, MA, and held administrative roles at San Francisco University High School and The Latin School of Chicago.
Strategic Plan
Strategic Plan
Head-Royce officially launched its strategic design and planning process in the fall of 2023 to understand what our community values about the Head-Royce experience—how well we fulfill our mission and what assets/competencies we should focus on strengthening and evolving. We undertake this important process every five to seven years to inform the school’s near term priorities and ensure that our vision continue to be in alignment with our past while also reflecting the innovations of today and the promise of tomorrow.
Diversity, Equity, + Inclusion
Diversity, Equity, + Inclusion
We commit to fostering global perspectives, resolving conflicts, repairing harm, promoting inclusion, respecting differences, and prioritizing BIPOC leadership. We welcome discomfort, learn from mistakes, and invest in training and curriculum revision for an anti-racist approach.
History of the School
History of the School
The spirit of inquiry and innovation brought by our founder, Anna Head, over 135 years ago remains infused in our culture today. From innovation centers, internships, and integrated technology, to life skills classes, service learning, cross-divisional buddies, and small advising groups, we are equally dedicated to educational excellence and social-emotional learning.