Suzanne McCanles

Oakhill Day School has grown from the Northland's best-kept secret to one of the city's premier private Independent schools under Suzanne's leadership. Since taking on the role of Head of School at Oakhill in 2007, Suzanne has seen the school through challenges; specifically, the tornado devastation in 2008 and the pandemic starting in 2020. Despite challenges, she has come out on top by acquiring a second campus building, seeing an enrollment increase of 47%, growing the school's middle school program, and most recently adding a high school. During her tenure, fundraising at Oakhill has also seen tremendous growth and has become a vital piece of Oakhill's success. As Head of School at Oakhill Day School, Suzanne empowers her faculty of almost 100 to take on leadership roles, and she supports, encourages, and assists them in whatever capacity she can. Suzanne held positions on the Gladstone Chamber of Commerce Board and was the Chairman of the Board from January 2014 to December 2016. Suzanne is also an ex-officio member of the Oakhill Day School Board of Trustees.

Suzanne is a Kansas City Northland native and holds an undergraduate degree from William Jewell College and a Masters in Education Administration from the University of Missouri - Kansas City. Suzanne has been a teacher, coach, and administrator for the past 30 years beginning at The Barstow School and currently at Oakhill Day School. Suzanne resides in Overland Park with her husband and has two children, one finishing college and another just beginning. She loves to travel; an adventure awaits around every corner!