Community Corner
Community Corner

Stay current with the latest private-independent school news.

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.

What Private Schools Get Wrong About Marketing

Marketing Communications // May 27, 2025

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.

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The Paradox of Change in Education

Academic Leadership // May 6, 2025

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?

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Case Study: Crescent School at Advancement Academy

Advancement // April 15, 2025

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.

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The Secret to Smarter Faculty Hiring: Reference Checks Done Right

Academic Leadership // March 31, 2025

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

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6 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Professional Development

School Leadership // February 25, 2025

In the process of preparing to teach a couple of professional development workshops for ISM, I got to thinking about the students who have gotten the most out of their experiences — and why. What has been the difference for those with tangible, measurable results versus those who check in, check out, and don’t move the needle when they get back to their schools?

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