It’s not always easy to see ways that your school’s operations might put you at risk. But managing it effectively isn’t as hard as you may think. Your team can manage risk by identifying exposures from past experiences or the experiences of others, seeing patterns, and considering new trends. Then identify ways you can prevent these risks from occuring now, or options you’ll have to mitigate if they occur in the future.

Shifting to a continuous enrollment program is a hot topic among advancement professionals in private-independent schools. Many schools have made the switch to automatically re-enrolling students for the next year if the student is in good academic standing, has no behavioral issues, and his or her account is paid in full.

It’s inevitable that your school will employ vendors to help support some aspects of your operations. Whether these vendors provide transportation, food, construction, or some other service, all should carry adequate insurance policies. Before you sign a contract and the vendor begins work, ensure each provides proof that the following policies and coverages are in place to protect their business and your school.

Your school probably has a well-thought-out crisis plan in place to help your school react should the unthinkable happen. But an often-overlooked aspect of a crisis plan is communication.

If your school employs an Assistant Head, it may be tempting to think of this position as a “catch all” for everything on your plate that you can’t or don’t have the time to accomplish. This shouldn't be the case, though. The Assistant Head position has the power to enhance your school’s operations. This role must be structured effectively to ensure it’s a value-add to your duties as School Head. Follow these guidelines for setting your Assistant Head up for success.

For schools that have an upper level, helping students find and apply to the college of their dreams is a critical concern for many counselors and staff members throughout the year. As this school year comes to a close and students complete the college application and acceptance process, it’s time to review your program for next year.

The spring is a busy time for administrators who work in admission, enrollment management, development, and marketing communications. As your team works together to attract, select, and accept new students, you may also consider adding new administrators to your ranks. Hiring new employees during an already stressful and hectic period isn’t easy. But it’s imperative to manage this process well and take care of candidates through every step in your hiring process.

The summer is no time for rest in the Admission Office. Chances are that there may still be open seats for the upcoming school year and you’ll be working through the summer months to fill those spots. But tours can feel less lively in the summer. There isn’t the usual hustle and bustle that lets prospective families see classes in action and students enjoying activities and programs.

We have often cited that every private-independent school should live by its mission, making each decision with this statement in mind. Along with the mission, ISM recommends that schools create their full Purpose and Outcome Statements.

Helping students learn problem-solving and collaboration skills will be essential to their future job success. In today’s global workforce, employees must be able to work together across geographies and time zones to solve problems, generate solutions, and effect change. School leaders are charged with empowering students to learn these fundamental competencies through their curricula and programs.