Head of School

Dear Colorado Springs School Community,

It is my honor and pleasure on behalf of The Colorado Springs School Board of Trustees to announce the unanimous appointment of Dr. Ryan Kelly as the next Head of School, commencing July 2024.

Dr. Kelly comes to us with a passion for education and a proven track record in leading schools through periods of growth and transformation. His career spans from the heart of the classroom to the forefront of international educational leadership, uniquely preparing him to guide our students in a world that demands leadership, ingenuity, problem-solving skills, and personal integrity.

Throughout our rigorous search process, Dr. Kelly distinguished himself as a leader deeply committed to student-centered education. He has demonstrated a remarkable ability to support and celebrate the potential of every student, resonating with the core values that have been the foundation of CSS for more than 60 years.

I would like to extend our gratitude to the search committee for their immense time commitment, professionalism, and confidentiality throughout this extensive search process simultaneously exceeding the goals to achieve a new head of school by this point in the school year.

Their dedication to finding the right candidate for our school has been invaluable. Our community's involvement was instrumental as well, and for this, we are grateful to each one of you! Engagement and feedback from staff, faculty, families, and community members have shaped this successful search.

Dr. Kelly will be joining us from his current role as Founding Head of School at BASIS International & Bilingual School in Chengdu, China where he is celebrated for fostering positive school culture, demonstrating transparent leadership, and honing the art of listening. He is deeply invested in engaging with all members of the school community and is skilled in nurturing teams to work collaboratively and effectively.

We are on the cusp of an exciting new chapter for CSS, one that Dr. Kelly is poised to lead with confidence and vision. As we continue to be a beacon of independent education in the Pikes Peak Region, Dr. Kelly will be instrumental in advancing our mission, embodying our strategic plan, and enhancing our fundraising efforts. His leadership comes at a time when CSS is embracing impactful changes to fortify our position as a community asset and an exceptional educational choice for families.

Additionally, Dr. Kelly and his family will be visiting our campus in February. This visit will be an opportunity for the CSS community to engage with our future Head of School and his family, laying the groundwork for the relationships that will steer our school towards a bright and enduring future.

The Colorado Springs School is more than an educational institution; it is an asset to the broader Colorado Springs community. We stand as a testament to the value of independent education and remain committed to serving our families and the community for generations to come.

As we acknowledge the transition that CSS is undergoing, we do so with the assurance that we are implementing best practices across all facets of our school's operations. We are learning from the past and boldly stepping into a future where our Whole Child approach and unparalleled curriculum continue to distinguish CSS as a leader in education.

Please join me in extending a warm welcome to Dr. Ryan Kelly and his family. Together, we embark on this journey with a shared commitment to the legacy and transformative growth of The Colorado Springs School.

Best Regards,

Heather Kelly P’30, P’27 President, Board of Trustees

The Colorado Springs School