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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.
10 Reasons You Were Meant to Be a Business Manager
Business and Operations // October 27, 2016
The Business Office has some of the most diverse hats to wear within private school administration. HR, insurance compliance, facilities upkeep, cash flows, and reports—your office is the hub of compliance and the nitty-gritty details of what makes your school tick beneath the surface. Between the many spontaneous emergencies that crop up at the worst possible moments and the immoveable deadlines you must reach, it can be difficult to recall why you signed up for this job in the first place. But, that's why we’re here to remind you of the great parts of your job.
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Encouraging Ideal Trustees to Serve Again
Board of Trustees // October 27, 2016
A profiled Board includes Trustees who collectively possess the skills, expertise, clout, and financial resources to enable a school to fulfill its mission. The Committee on Trustees is charged with developing and maintaining this “profile” based on the requirements of the school’s planning documents. A key element in this process is re-recruiting Trustees who fit the profile.
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Mindful Mentoring
Business and Operations // October 27, 2016
Being a mentor surpasses the responsibility of new hire orientations and campus tours. Meaningful mentoring is a deeper relationship between two faculty (or staff) members, focused on revealing and amplifying strengths, patiently guiding, and inspiring. It is a big responsibility, one that should not be taken lightly, and—if paired correctly—can positively influence not only the mentee, but also your overall school culture.
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Ask ISM's Health Care Reform Specialist
Business and Operations // October 27, 2016
Q: We're currently gathering information for the employer reporting forms. Are there any changes to the forms for this year?
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The Impending Teacher Shortage
Board of Trustees // October 27, 2016
It’s clear from the recently released report from ACT, The Condition of Future Educators 2015, that the nation faces a teacher shortage in coming years. ACT has conducted research on career and college preparation since its founding in 1959, releasing their annual report every August. The most recent report focused specifically on students showing an interest in a career in education. The results are not promising.
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“Advanced Placement” Doesn’t Equal Higher College Grades, Study Finds
Academic Leadership // October 25, 2016
Many schools—public, charter, and private alike—offer The College Board’s “rigorous” Advanced Placement (AP) program to their most driven pupils. Students take these courses for the educational challenge and (they hope) the “advanced” standing they’ll receive from secondary institutions in the form of college credits. However, a new study has recently shed doubts on whether these AP programs mean greater success for students at the collegiate level.
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10 Reasons You Were Meant to Teach
Academic Leadership // October 25, 2016
The first months of a school year can be rough, as everyone re-adjusts to more regular sleep schedules and greater expectations. Sometimes, you just need a reminder why you bothered to begin this career path in the first place—and we can help you there.
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10 Reasons You Were Meant to Be in Advancement
Advancement // October 21, 2016
Do you remember your first day on the job? That moment when you were scared and excited and thrilled all at once at the possibilities that struck you? That moment of inspiration may fade as the realities of a tough job take root, but don’t worry—we’re here to help remind you why you chose this job in the first place.
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4 Ways to Encourage Sensitive Faculty Solicitation
Advancement // October 21, 2016
We all understand and appreciate the importance of faculty participation in the overall effectiveness a school’s various fundraisers and capital campaigns. It serves as a signal to other donors that the teachers believe so much in the school’s educational work that they’re willing to sacrifice their time and money to ensure it continues. However, faculty solicitation requires a delicate touch. So this month, we’ll talk about four ways in which to sensitively ask your teachers and other staff members to contribute.
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9 Items New Business Managers Should Keep in Mind
Business and Operations // September 27, 2016
Is this your first year at a private-independent school as a brand-new Business Manager? Are you feeling overwhelmed with the start of the school year? To help you get the jump on things and stay focused on your job, here are nine items to keep in mind in your first few months in your new position. (In fact, even seasoned Business Managers would do well to keep these thoughts forefront in their minds!)
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