Coaching for Independent School Leaders

About Zakaria

Zakaria Sherbiny is the founder and principal of First Rodeo Coaching. A certified leadership coach and former independent school leader, he works with school leaders from around the world to grow their confidence, increase effectiveness, and manage stress and burnout.

A 3x member of the NAIS Coaches’ Corner, Zakaria graduated from the schools of education at Harvard University and Columbia University. He serves as a practicum mentor for the Klingenstein Center at Teachers College, and has also collaborated with SAIS and One Schoolhouse to support new administrators.

Zakaria lives in Arlington, VA with his wife and their two dogs.

“Zakaria created a safe space for exploration where I could fully process and explore my fears and challenges as a leader without judgment. The work we did together bolstered my confidence and I’m heading into next school year with renewed energy and a positive outlook on my ability to handle whatever comes my way.”
— Teri Rutledge, Head of School (Harbor School, WA)

Our Clients

  • St. Paul's School (Concord, NH)

  • Middlesex School (Concord, MA)

  • Saint Ann's School (Brooklyn, NY)

  • Woodberry Forest School (Woodberry, VA)

  • Hawken School (Cleveland, OH)

  • Grace Church School (New York, NY)

  • Hockaday School (Dallas, TX)

  • The Peck School (Morristown, NJ)

  • Episcopal Day School (San Mateo, CA)

  • Chandler School (Los Angeles, CA)

  • Harbor School (Vashon Island, WA)

“Working with First Rodeo Coaching has been a clarifying, affirming, and life-giving experience! The regular, empowering conversations with my coach pushed me out of my comfort zone to become the most adaptable leader possible. I learned that during this mid-career season, I can still stretch and do hard things, all while staying true to myself and my core values.”
— Bethany Dickerson Wynder, Director of DEIJ Initiatives (St. Paul's School, NH)

Leadership Coaching

Coaching is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. It helps leaders refine their skills, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals.

In short, coaching is personalized professional development - designed to your needs, for your goals, in your school.

Whether you’re an individual leader, a leadership team, or an organization invested in leadership growth, coaching offers immense benefits that create a lasting impact.

2024 NAIS Coaches’ Corner in St. Louis, MO