Head of School Search

Dear Seacrest Community,

Over the course of the past eight months, the Search Committee of the Board of Trustees, in collaboration with RG175, a national recruiting firm, conducted an extensive national search for the next leader of our school. The search resulted in more than 40 highly credentialed applicants and a pool of 12 top candidates. Through the interview process, the Search Committee narrowed the pool to 4 outstanding finalists, including David Mahler, our Interim Head of School.

At the conclusion of the Search Committee’s process and due diligence, the Search Committee selected David as the clear top candidate for this position.  The Search Committee presented their recommendation to the Board of Trustees, who unanimously voted to appoint David as our next Head of School.  As a Board, we are elated with the outcome of this search.  We are confident that David is the right person to lead our school into the future.  He is an independent school leader with unparalleled experience and a track record of success in every position in which he has served.  The Board of Trustees is excited to formally announce the appointment of Mr. David Mahler as Seacrest Country Day School’s Seventh Head of School. 

As you know, David joined Seacrest as our Interim Head of School in March of 2024. We know that you have seen, as we have, the tremendous positive impact David has had on our school in the very brief time he has been with us. In working with David, the Board of Trustees has found him to possess exceptionally deep and practical independent school experience, coupled with profound vision. His leadership style, which we have watched him put into action, is student-centered, results-oriented, collaborative and rooted in both kindness and core values.

Dr. Barbara Hodges, Executive Director of the Florida Council of Independent Schools said, “David Mahler is a visionary leader, problem solver, and a strategic thinker. With his skillset, he has the ability to move independent schools to new levels. I am excited about the possibilities and future of Seacrest Country Day School under his leadership.” Ron Gelbman, who chaired the Search Committee that hired David and served as his first Board Chair at The Out of Door Academy, shared, “David’s strong leadership, honesty, and good judgment left an imprint on the school.  During his tenure, he transformed all facets of ODA and built strong relationships with students, parents, faculty, staff, trustees and donors.”  We invite you to view a summary of David’s professional experience, as well as his educational philosophy statement.

I would like to thank each member of our Board of Trustees and, in particular, the Search Committee for their tireless work during the search process. There is no more important work for our Board than securing the right leader. We could not be more pleased with the outcome of our efforts. Thank you for your ongoing support of our school.  The future is bright for Seacrest Country Day. 

Warmly,

Shan O’Fee-Byrom

Chair, Board of Trustees

Welcome from the Head of School, David Mahler

Head of School Position Statement

Click Here to View The Position Statement