MICHAEL E. WAYLETT

With more than 40 years of leadership experience in independent schools, including senior administrative and Head of School roles, Mike Waylett brings a deep and comprehensive understanding of school operations. His expertise spans financial management, governance, human resources, admissions and financial aid, communications and marketing, advancement, curriculum oversight, and major construction projects. Known for his practical insight, steady leadership, and strategic perspective, Mike has helped schools strengthen their operations, advance their missions, and plan confidently for the future.

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Mike’s passion for education was shaped early by family influences—his father, a college professor, and his mother, a schoolteacher for more than 30 years. He began his career at St. Anne’s-Belfield School in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he served as a teacher and soccer coach before advancing into senior leadership roles, most recently as Associate Head of School. Over his 34-year tenure, Mike received numerous honors, including the school’s first annual Teacher Award, the Alumni Distinguished Faculty Award, and the Malone Prize for extraordinary service and loyalty. In recognition of his lasting impact, the school renamed its Service Award the Michael E. Waylett Service Award.

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In 2015, Mike was appointed Head of School at Linden Hall School for Girls, where he served for five years. Prior to joining IES Consulting, Mike spent five years as the Director of Consulting and Financial Consultant at ST Search & Consulting (formerly Southern Teachers Agency), supporting schools and senior administrators with leadership, financial, and strategic guidance.

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Mike earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the State University of New York at Brockport and a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision from the University of Virginia. He also completed extensive coursework in mathematics and business at the University of Virginia and James Madison University.