The summer months often offer a slower pace. While you still have responsibilities in the office, there is also more time to reflect and plan for the year ahead.
One of the best ways to plan for the school year ahead is through professional development. You can sharpen your skills, discover new methods, and ultimately return to campus renewed with enthusiasm.
We have shared the elements of all meaningful professional development initiatives. Professional development must be:
- Intentional
- Individualized
- Lifelong Collegial
- Student-centric
- Always evolving
As you look at your plans for summer 2019, consider the following opportunities for professional growth.
Starting a new role or in your first years on the job?
Learn the ins and outs of your position so you become well-versed in the fundamentals. If you’ve worked in other industries and are new to private schools, understanding this unique educational culture is integral to job success.
Consider:
- The New School Head
- The New Admission Director
- The New Development Director
- The New Marketing Communications Director
- Running an Effective Business and Operations Office
- Chairing Your Department: The First Five Years
- Leading the Effective School: Lower, Middle, and Upper
Experienced in your position and want to take your expertise to the next level?
Explore new trends that your school can harness and ways you can improve how you approach your role. There is always room to expand your knowledge to support your fellow administrators, staff, and students.
Consider:
- Transformative Academic Leadership
- Heads Retreat (This takes place in November, but is great for School Heads who want to connect with their peers and hear the latest research concerning long-term school viability.)
Looking for a deeper perspective on a specific topic?
Delve into topics you want to become more familiar with or areas where you want to strengthen your skills and strategies.
Consider:
- Mastering Enrollment Management
- Student-Centered Scheduling
- Women in Leadership: Building Confidence and Empowering Success
- Strategic Financial Planning
- Build a Strong Advisory Program
- Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity: Strategies for Private-Independent Schools
- Protect Your School, Constituents, and Bottom Line
Don’t let this summer pass by without doing something to build your confidence and support your skills. Consider these three areas to focus your efforts and return to campus refreshed and ready to take on the year.
Additional ISM Resources:
The Source for School Heads Vol. 17 No. 1 Three Dimensions of Meaningful Professional Development
The Source for School Heads Vol. 17 No. 4 Three More Dimensions of Meaningful Professional Development
Additional ISM resources for members:
I&P Vol. 41 No. 16 Professional Development: Five Worst Practices
