Chapman earns doctorate in educational leadership

The Village School of Naples, an independent school serving students in PreK3 through 12th grade, announced that Head of School Dennis Chapman has earned his EdD in educational leadership from The University of Pennsylvania – Graduate School of Education.

Chapman’s three-year journey through his doctoral studies was marked by research and dedication to improving independent school education. His main focus during his studies was utilizing the information he was learning at Penn to continually improve The Village School, including his dissertation on “Servant Leadership and Teacher Retention at Independent Schools: Examining the Role of the Head of School.”

“This remarkable accomplishment highlights Dennis’ unwavering commitment to lifelong learning and dedication to enhancing education for all students,” said Theo Etzel, Board Chairman for The Village School. “We are confident that the fresh insights from his studies will further enhance our learning environment and strengthen our community bonds.”

A native of Miami, Chapman has more than 20 years of independent school leadership experience and 25 years of non-profit experience. He joined The Village School in 2018 after serving as president and head of school at The New School in Fayetteville, Ark. Before that, he was associate head of school for The Out-of-Door Academy in Sarasota.

Chapman recently was elected to the Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS) Board of Directors. He will join the board in July. Founded in 1954, FCIS is the premier accrediting body for independent schools in Florida working to both set the standards and advance the quality of independent private school education across the state.

Chapman earned his bachelor of arts in mass communications from Trinity International University and his master of education in educational leadership from the University of South Florida. He presents annually at independent school conferences nationwide and has received nearly a dozen industry awards for his work in school marketing.