Head of School (Thich Nhat Hanh School of Interbeing)
The Thich Nhat Hanh School of Interbeing is seeking a deeply grounded, experienced, and visionary Head of School to lead the launch and long-term development of this values-driven learning community.
Posted: December 31, 2025
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DonateThích Nhất Hạnh School of Interbeing (TNH SOI)
Onsite, Escondido, California (remote not an option)
The Thích Nhất Hạnh School of Interbeing is a new K-8 independent school opening with grades K-5 in August 2026, located at the foothills of Deer Park Monastery in Escondido, CA. Rooted in mindfulness, compassion, and ethical leadership, the School of Interbeing is cultivating emerging research partnerships with Harvard’s Project Zero on contemplative learning, a Happy Families online course in partnership with Dartmouth College, and the Thich Nhat Hanh Center for Mindfulness at the Harvard School of Public Health through a School Meal Innovation Pilot, positioning the school as a demonstration site for culturally affirming, planet-forward meals. The school is being developed within an emerging village ecosystem alongside Happy Farm and a future senior care home, intentionally fostering intergenerational learning and a community rooted in wellbeing.
We are seeking a deeply grounded, experienced, and visionary Head of School to lead the launch and long-term development of this values-driven learning community.
The Head of School will guide the school from the advanced stages of inception through formal launch through a phase of early growth, establishing strong academic, operational, and community foundations. This role is ideal for a seasoned independent school leader who brings both contemplative depth and practical leadership experience.
Important notes about this role:
This is a rare opportunity to help shape a school from the ground up; academically, culturally, and spiritually. The Head of School will play a defining role in creating a learning environment where children are supported to grow in wisdom, compassion, and responsibility toward the world.
The Recruitment Process
Applications open until end of day (PST) 23rd January, 2026 Applications will be shortlisted and review, and shortlisted candidates can expect the following:
Our Commitment to a Mindful and Equitable Process
In the spirit of mindfulness, equity, and right relationship, we ask all applicants to engage fully through the formal application process. To support fairness and collective care, please refrain from reaching out to Board members, monastics, or staff of the Thich Nhat Hanh School of Interbeing outside of this process. This helps us meet each candidate with the same presence, care, and integrity.
If you have any questions about this please reach out to careers@tnhschool.org.
From time to time we offer multi-week courses related to mindfulness, the teachings and life of Thich Nhat Hanh, and a variety of similar subjects. Please see our schedule of upcoming courses.
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