About Clair Ward

As a school leader and coach, I consider it my job to create shared alignment that inspires passion that helps others  see their roles in realizing that vision.  Community members then feel crucial to the school’s outcomes, they take pride in the work, and they demonstrate initiative that helps capture the collective strength that comes from many working together on the same goal. This is the kind of school in which trustees, families, and teachers work together to nurture the budding scientists, authors, musicians, writers, artists, athletes, philosophers and educators in their midst. This is the kind of school that all the adults and children feel eager to call “my school.” To best support this vision, I cultivate alignment of purpose, a culture of trust and transparency, and a belief in the power of mutual accountability. If I have done my job as a leader, then I can step away from a thriving organization that can easily go on pursuing the vision.  I do this work to help individuals and organizations realize all that is possible.

My approach to coaching features a strong ability to sense not only what agenda leaders are managing on the surface, but also the stories and beliefs that can sometimes limit or enable their potential.  I am able to couple my strong background in organizational systems with my commitment to helping leaders see how their sense of self can impact how they show up personally and professionally.  The goal is to partner with each client to move them through the stages of awareness, choice and transformation.  I love nothing more than experiencing the power that leaders feel when they are living in resonance with their values.

I have been in education for over 30 years with nearly half of that time spent in the role of Head of School at two schools.  I prioritize organizational health and well-being by fostering positive and inclusive school culture.  Happy adults translate directly to a positive experience for children, so I am committed to mentoring school employees across every work group.  Most recently, I have completed all of the coursework for my Leadership and Performance Coaching certificate and am working toward additional certification with the International Coaching Federation.  Combining my years of mentoring with a robust skill set in coaching has deepened my ability to support non-profit leaders across a full spectrum of missions in all parts of the country.

I am someone who believes deeply in the impact of curiosity and positive thinking.  Married to a career educator, I feel fortunate to also enjoy being the mother of a college age daughter.  Two exuberant golden retrievers make our family complete and we all enjoy our time outdoors on the beaches of coastal Maine.  When not in work mode, you will find me meditating, journaling, singing or playing the violin.  I am on the Board of Directors for the Fayerweather Street School and the Membership Committee for the Association of Independent Schools of New England.

Leadership and Performance Coaching Program, Brown University 

ICF Certified Coaching Credential (Level I in process)

M.Ed. Boston College , BA English and Classics, Hamilton College