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What are the latest trends impacting private-independent school enrollment? How can you be the most effective in your role as an administrator? How can you help your school meet its mission and best serve your students?
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We cover such topics as how to communicate with your constituencies, work with your fellow school leaders, leverage new technology trends, utilize recommended reading and resources, implement new strategies—all to better serve your school's mission.
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See articles for School Heads, Business & Operations, Advancement, Academic Leadership, and Trustees, in addition to Private School News.
Fall 2020 Reopening Plans Are a Sophie’s Choice
School Heads // August 23, 2020
We explore the potential impact of both distance learning and returning to campus amid a global pandemic on student well-being. As an organization, we predict the potential high frequency of the stops and starts of in-person learning may ultimately have a greater negative impact on educational continuity and student health and safety than a full distance learning program. While every school is ultimately responsible for its individual choices, consider the following as you evaluate your options for education delivery this fall.
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Create a Strategic Development Committee Agenda for the Year
Fundraising // August 23, 2020
Your strategically focused Board of Trustees is key to making your development programs effective and sustainable. When your Board centers on decision-making that is future-focused and viability-motivated, your school not only prospers, but you can also inspire your donors and prospects to commit philanthropic dollars to your school.
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Jump-Start Your Blog: How to Create Content to Produce Inquiries
Marketing Communications // August 23, 2020
Blog content remains an important element of your content marketing strategy. Promoting that content through social media and placing strategic ads only succeeds if the content your target audience lands on aligns with their needs and values.
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Marketing Tips for the 2020–21 School Year
Marketing Communications // August 16, 2020
As families face uncertainty about their child’s education and schooling options this fall, your school’s marketing messages matter more than ever before. What your school says to current and prospective families must illustrate your strengths as an institution, your confidence in the future, and your mission as central to every decision that you make.
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Creating a More Equitable and Inclusive School Environment
School Heads // August 16, 2020
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work should not be a short-term messaging change to address recent events, nor should it be limited to schools that have been asked to or seen a need to address these issues. DEI work at an institutional level is necessary for the sustainability of all independent schools in a competitive market.
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What to Evaluate When Choosing a Learning Management System
Academic Leadership // August 16, 2020
There are many LMS available, each with its own features and problems. Here’s what you should know about choosing the right LMS for your school’s needs.
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Five Barriers That Can Impact Your Decision-Making
School Health and Wellness // August 9, 2020
School Heads have found themselves grappling with making decisions in the face of unprecedented uncertainty—the biggest of which may just be whether or not to reopen your school’s physical campus. The rules of the game are changing by the hour. Alas, decision-making cannot be avoided, especially during a crisis. Heads who must make important decisions under duress need to recognize problems that can affect the quality of their decision-making.
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Board Clarity—Leading Through the COVID-19 Pandemic
Board of Trustees // August 9, 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for independent schools. The urgent, overwhelming, and ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic is causing Boards to consider operational issues typically reserved for the School Head and Leadership Team. The most pressing concern, reopening the facility, is such an issue. It is vital that Boards and School Heads work together to make the right decisions.
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School Head Clarity—Leading Through the COVID-19 Pandemic
School Heads // August 9, 2020
A positive relationship between the School Head and the Board is fundamental to ensure the future of a private school. During a crisis, this relationship becomes even more vital to the school’s success.
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How to Navigate Enrollment Issues in an Uncertain Year
Enrollment Management // July 26, 2020
The 2020–21 school year will be a test of the lessons learned this spring. Enrollment management leaders must adapt their strategies to meet families' needs during this pandemic.
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