Your school's schedule, faculty, and advisory program — these are the extras that make a school unique and competitive. ISM consultants can help schools develop programs and services into true assets that families love.

Here are sample sessions ISM consultants have led on this topic.

Bryan Smyth, Ph.D.
ISM Senior Consultant and Director of Research

The State of Student Well-being: 2025
Prior to the pandemic, student well-being was declining. During the pandemic, many people predicted that student well-being would become and even greater issue. Our data showed that 5th and 6th graders were generally flourishing, however, older students were not, and the average upper school student was in high levels of distress. However, many thought that a “return” to normal school function would also result in student well-being returning to “normal.” This session will report on data collected over the past two school years to shed light on the current state of student well-being. Further, the presenter will identify stressors and dynamics that appear to impact student well-being and suggest ways to support student well-being.

Maggie Renken, Ph.D.
ISM Consultant

Reimagining Learning Experiences: Crafting Human-Centered Curriculum and Activities that Propel AI-Literate Students
For academic leaders navigating the transformative potential of AI, this session is not just another talk about AI — it’s a deep dive into AI literacy grounded in learning science. We’ll explore a methodologically distinct, research-informed approach to integrating AI literacy that focuses on deep learning, critical thinking, and preparing students with skills and mindsets for the future, all while supporting the school's core mission and fostering community buy-in. 

AI and Faculty Flourishing: Enhancing Teacher Well-Being and Cultivating a Supportive Culture
Independent school faculty are navigating significant change, and AI adds a new layer of complexity. This session focuses on how schools can use AI in a human-centered way to support faculty well-being, reduce administrative burden, and strengthen the professional culture. We will explore practical AI applications for efficiency, strategies for designing relevant and effective AI professional development, and methods for fostering a collaborative culture where faculty feel supported and empowered to explore AI responsibly.