Independent schools are uniquely positioned to support students with learning differences, thanks to small class sizes, close-knit communities, and flexible approaches to education. This webinar is designed for administrators, learning specialists, and support staff in independent schools who want to strengthen their ability to serve students with diverse learning needs.

In today’s evolving threat landscape, private-independent schools face the growing and deeply concerning risk of active assailant incidents. These events not only pose an immediate danger to students, faculty, and staff but also leave lasting emotional, financial, and operational impacts on the entire school community. Unfortunately, many schools remain unprepared for the full scope of these crises — from immediate response to long-term recovery.

From whiteboards to spreadsheets, schools use a variety of tools and strategies to create middle and upper school schedules. No matter the method, scheduling is a complex, time-consuming process, but a vital one as your schedule reflects your school’s mission, values, and priorities. For many, it can feel like solving a high-stakes puzzle under pressure.

For independent schools with small development teams, managing multiple fundraising initiatives can feel daunting. How do you balance annual giving, major gifts, and planned giving with limited staff and resources?

Retaining families is “enrollment critical.” It’s never too early to start re-recruiting your new parents and students with a transition to your school community that is positive and mission-centered. As families juggle the demands of daily life, school leaders must be increasingly creative and thoughtful in providing new families with the information and connections necessary to establish a strong, productive partnership with the school based on shared values.

Employee benefits — along with a winning school culture — are a key component of attracting and retaining faculty and staff, ensuring long-term institutional success. Schools must balance financial sustainability with competitive offerings by designing benefits packages that meet employee needs while controlling costs. Schools must also pay attention to those factors that contribute to faculty and staff stress.

Running a small development office in a private-independent school comes with unique challenges and opportunities. With limited staff and resources, advancement professionals must be strategic, efficient, and mission-driven to maximize fundraising success.

This webinar will explore key strategies for prioritizing tasks, leveraging volunteers, engaging donors, and building a sustainable fundraising program — while wearing multiple hats. You’ll gain practical insights to help you streamline operations and increase impact.

In private-independent schools, upwards of 70% of the operating budget comes from tuition revenue. It is therefore critical that the admission and business offices work cooperatively to achieve their school’s enrollment and financial goals. Critical collaborative functions include setting tuition and budgets, establishing a financial aid strategy, and ensuring student retention.

Join ISM Consultants Terry Moore and Penny Abrahams as they share their expert advice for strengthening this key partnership to position schools for sustained success.