AI isn’t coming — it’s already here. Learn why the real challenge for independent schools isn’t disruption, but integration — and how a human-centered approach can set your school apart.

If you want your school’s strategic plan to crash and burn, here are some “failure strategies” that take a promising vision and send it straight into the land of forgotten binders. 

Within the last week alone, I’ve had three conversations with private-independent school leaders grappling with enrollment declines. And in every one of those conversations, I’ve heard some version of the same story: a plan to trim marketing communications staff, budgets, or both.

Authors: Steve Salvo, ISM Adjunct Faculty Sarah Wilson, Executive Director, Tennessee Association of Independent Schools When public dollars enter private schools, what changes — and what’s at stake? Many private-independent school leaders are wrestling with these questions as state-...

Financial aid goes beyond dollars and cents. How you administer aid is a reflection of your mission, values, and long-term enrollment strategy. Done well, it builds trust, expands access, and fuels retention. Done poorly, it becomes a friction point that frustrates families and burdens your team.

An interesting dichotomy exists in education. “We are suffering from change fatigue.” “Education is largely the same as it has been for the past century.” Both statements are true. But how can that be?

Looking to grow as a team, set goals that align with their school's strategic plan, and take advantage of mentorship opportunities, the advancement team at Crescent School sends members to Advancement Academy every year.

How does your school support students' full participation in your program — regardless of financial aid status?

Have you ever made a hire that you later regretted? A strong hire can move a school forward more effectively than any other initiative. When a new hire doesn’t meet expectations, it can take a heavy toll. One crucial step in the hiring process might save you and your school a lot of time, trouble, and money: Strategic, structured reference checks

Here's how Good Shepherd Episcopal School in Dallas, TX, took advantage of ISM Advancement Academy to grow as a team, refine its marketing communication strategy, and set practical goals for the year ahead.