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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?
Check out Community Corner, a free blog from ISM.
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.
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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Scheduling Concerns for the 2020–21 School Year
Academic Leadership // July 26, 2020
Distance learning requires a modified schedule to meet the unique needs of remote education—you cannot simply mirror your on-campus schedule for distance learning at home. This article provides some insight on how to plan your schedule for the coming year.
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Building Your Annual Fund During COVID-19
Fundraising // July 26, 2020
The annual fund is the foundation of your school’s philanthropic program. Even in uncertain times, your school should continue to fundraise for the annual fund. Here's how to ensure your efforts are effective.
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What Every Private School Must Know for the 2020–21 School Year
School Heads // July 19, 2020
ISM recently conducted a survey to better understand how parents feel about their private school’s transition to distance learning this spring. One thing is clear. When it comes to distance learning and family satisfaction in the new school year, schools will be held to a much higher standard.
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Should Schools Amend Existing Enrollment Contracts to Account for Distance Learning?
Enrollment Management // July 19, 2020
If your existing contract does not include force majeure language—or fails to declare distance learning an acceptable substitute for on-campus instruction—you might be tempted to ask parents to sign a new contract, or to sign a contract addendum, for 2020–21.
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