Franci Bell, former Head of School at The Cooper School, a progressive K-8 institution in Charleston, SC, brings a wealth of expertise in educational leadership.
As Head of School, she championed the school’s innovative, student-centered learning mission and expanded its offerings by establishing both a Kindergarten and a Middle School program, significantly enhancing its educational reach.
Franci now works as a consultant and coach, helping schools optimize their educational programming and ensuring that curricula and teaching strategies align with best student engagement and achievement practices. She also coaches leaders, focusing on developing strategic vision, strengthening leadership skills, and supporting effective decision-making to enhance overall school culture.
As a curriculum writer, she designs programs that support holistic and engaging learning experiences. She has served on the boards of several organizations, including the Palmetto Association of Independent Schools, and has presented at prominent conferences, such as the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS).
Franci holds a BS in Human Development and Family Studies from Cornell University, an MS in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Governors University, a JD from the University of South Carolina, as well as certificates in School Management and Leadership from Harvard Business School, Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, and Design Thinking from Stanford d.school.