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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.
Why You Can’t Afford to Be Without D&O Insurance
Board of Trustees // January 24, 2018
Directors & Officers insurance (also known as School Legal or Trustee Liability insurance) may be the most critical insurance and protection for your school. Damages sought under D&O insurance can range anywhere from a nuisance claim to one seeking millions of dollars in compensation. This may include a request for punitive damages if the action in question is considered egregious enough—especially if the school knew of a wrong action that was occurring and did nothing to stop it.
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How to Create Job Descriptions to Attract Great New Teachers
Academic Leadership // January 22, 2018
Hiring can be one of the most time-consuming and nerve-wracking aspects of your job as an academic leader. The first step in a successful hiring process is creating a comprehensive job description that attracts the right applicants. Craft a job description that accurately portrays an open role’s expected responsibilities, education level, and characteristics. Also focus on what sets your school apart from others in the marketplace to ensure you find the right person to fill each position.
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Why Positivity Matters in Your School
Academic Leadership // January 22, 2018
Academic leaders are tasked with creating school systems that support teachers and help students succeed. ISM’s research indicates that cultivating a positive atmosphere—one where faculty members provide a predictive and supportive environment—is essential to making student success a reality.
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The Information Parents Value Most
Advancement // January 17, 2018
The Marketing and Communications Office is a driving force in providing information about your school to parents. But how do parents prefer to receive this information?
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Three Steps for Successfully Turning an Inquiry Into a Campus Visit
Advancement // January 17, 2018
Parents often contact multiple private-independent schools when choosing where to send their child. Parents can make an inquiry to your school by phone, via email, through your website, or by way of social media. Your job as a member of the Admission Office is to turn that inquiry into a campus visit, where you can show your school in action.
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Preparing Your School for Cybersecurity Threats
Business and Operations // January 9, 2018
Is your school prepared to withstand a cybersecurity threat? A new study from the Consortium for School Networking and the Education Week Research Center shows that many schools aren’t.
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The Essential Role of the Business Manager at Your School
Business and Operations // January 9, 2018
An efficient and effective Business Office is critical to your school’s success. Whether you’re a new Business Manager yourself, or you’re a school leader looking to add or refine this position within your organizational structure, here are some recommendations for the responsibilities of the Business Manager in a private-independent school.
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Creating a Successful Advisory Program
School Heads // January 8, 2018
A key attribute of a private-independent school education is the presence of an advisory program. Families value the one-on-one attention and mentoring their child receives, providing them with the academic guidance, character education, and personal development advice they need to excel within your school. Here are some tips for creating a successful advisory program to benefit students, families, and faculty.
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How to Announce a New Strategic Financial Plan
School Heads // January 8, 2018
The holiday season is behind us, a new year is beginning, and you have big tasks on the horizon. Chances are your team is in the final stages of completing next year’s financial plan. It’s now your job to orchestrate announcing next year’s plans—along with any accompanying changes to tuition and fees—to the school community. It can be difficult to share this news, and you may wonder about the best way to approach this announcement.
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Why Senior Citizens Are a Vital Addition to Your Volunteer Pool
Private School News // December 21, 2017
The holiday season is a joyous time, filled with friends, family, and giving. But, come January, many of us fall into our normal routine and there can be less focus on community. One group that can feel this shift are local senior citizens. As you review your initiatives for the new year, consider whether you could enlist this group to be part of your school’s volunteer team.
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