“I’ve been working with Jim Leonard for the past two-plus years, and I frankly don’t know what I’ll do if he ever decides to move on from this role. Jim has been an invaluable coach, guide, interlocutor, motivator…even a bit of a gentle “noodge” when it comes to keeping me faithful to my goals. Jim is the best of all worlds — he knows schools, he knows the Head of School job inside and out, and he has offered me the great gift of getting to know me. I couldn’t think more highly of Jim Leonard than I do, and there is no doubt that he has helped me become a better — and certainly happier! — Head of School.”

Alexis, Head of School, NYC

“Story is, quite simply, a ‘big soul’ whose energy radiates through the screen. She has an uncanny ability to pick up on nuances—your insecurities, strengths, and hidden abilities—and navigate you through hard moments with perspectives you would never have considered in a million years. She is dynamic, available, and knows exactly when to tell you to pause, rethink, or restructure. She kept me grounded and, most importantly, gave me the strength to truly believe in myself as a leader.”

Kavita Bafana, Director of Admissions, 5-12 Trinity School

“Stepping into a new leadership role isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s a high-wire act… balancing the weight of expectations, the need for clarity, and the quiet (or not-so-quiet) voice in your head asking, ‘Am I getting this right?’ That’s where Bea Fuller comes in. Bea listens deeply, asks the kind of questions that cut through the noise, and provides the steady, strategic guidance that makes leadership feel not just manageable but meaningful. Leadership is full of moments when you must trust yourself, step forward, and own the space you’re in. With Bea’s coaching, I do that more fully, more intentionally, and with a greater sense of purpose.”

Stephanie Vagle, Associate Head of School for Academics, Shattuck-St. Mary’s School, Faribault, MN

“Working with Scott has been transformative for me as a leader and a school person. Any educational leader knows that reflective practice is powerful, but having the opportunity to engage in this so intentionally, guided by someone who is such a wonderful listener and whose knowledge of schools is so deep, has been an incredible experience. Through my coaching sessions with Scott, I’ve arrived at new perspectives and insights about my own strengths and areas for growth as a leader, and I leave our conversations feeling better prepared to meet both the challenges and the opportunities—and to create more of those opportunities—in my work in my school.”

Emily Pressman, Dean of Teaching & Learning, St. Andrew’s School

“Working with Coaching at Altitude has been a professional highlight for me. Their coaches are deeply experienced and knowledgeable of the independent school world, which was immensely helpful as I transitioned roles and schools. Perhaps the most helpful and memorable part of my coaching experience was the opportunity to engage in a Generative 360 Review in my second year of coaching. The feedback I received from my coach and my colleagues felt relevant and actionable and I finished the process feeling both seen and appreciated. I’m so glad I engaged in this process and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to grow as a leader and educator!”

Amy Wintermeyer, Assistant Head of School, Colorado Academy

Working with Michael as my leadership coach has been nothing short of profound. He has empathized with me, but more importantly, he has challenged me. By asking poignant questions, listening with measured patience, and providing enthusiastic encouragement, Michael has demonstrated a genuine ability to connect that has pushed me forward. I’m immeasurably indebted to Michael.

Andrew Garlinski, Director of Admissions, Shattuck-St. Mary’s School, MN

Jim Leonard knows independent schools: the business, the value, and the inevitable challenges. Over his successful and innovative tenure as a Head of School, Jim demonstrated the skills and mindset crucial to investing in and developing the talents of his team, building a positive and dynamic school culture, and effectively realizing strategic opportunities.

Christine Lehman Chair, Board of Trustees at Santa Fe Prep 2016-2020

The accountability that a coach provides was a huge benefit for me. Knowing I would be meeting with Story was an incentive for trying out the changes I articulated with her that I wanted to make. As a result, I left our meetings having been more vulnerable, authentic, and satisfied that little was left unsaid. I don’t feel like I’m hiding anymore. I am showing up to meetings differently.

Michael Buensuceso, Assistant Head of School for Community and Equity, Berwick Academy

I’ve been working with Jim Leonard for the past two-plus years, and I frankly don’t know what I’ll do if he ever decides to move on from this role. Jim has been an invaluable coach, guide, interlocutor, motivator…even a bit of a gentle “noodge” when it comes to keeping me faithful to my goals. Jim is the best of all worlds — he knows schools, he knows the Head of School job inside and out, and he has offered me the great gift of getting to know me. I couldn’t think more highly of Jim Leonard than I do, and there is no doubt that he has helped me become a better — and certainly happier! — Head of School.

Alexis, Head of School, NYC