“And to All, a Good Night”—Community Efforts by Independent Schools During the Holidays

Private School News // December 8, 2014

No matter what tradition you follow, the winter months bring a sense of cheer and wonder to all. But during a time of increased generosity and eager anticipation of gifts from loved ones, remembering those who are less fortunate takes a special emphasis and care. So this month, we’d like to share some bright moments of true holiday spirit, courtesy of schools across the country.

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“Admission” Versus “Admissions”

Advancement // December 5, 2014

Ever wonder what you’d be like if your name were different? If your parents had chosen Steve or Mary instead of Bob or Sue? The logical answer is that you’d be the same person you’ve always been, regardless. There’s always that niggling voice in the back of your head, though, whispering that you’d be more assertive as a Mary or nicer as a Steve. There’s a similar debate over the name of your office, with little consensus between schools. Titles and office names are the first impression you give to any prospective family—or fellow peer—and can color someone’s initial judgment of both you and the work you do. With that in mind, let’s consider the many rationales for “Admission” or “Admissions,” and reflect on the potential hidden meanings behind your choice of title.

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Current Families Welcome, Retain New Students

Advancement // December 5, 2014

Your involvement with students and families doesn’t end after their acceptance to your school. Families who feel welcomed and involved are more likely to stay—which means less hassle and headache for you later when re-enrollment time comes around. To encourage a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for new families, try a “host family” program.

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Double-Check the Books and Avoid Embezzlement

Business and Operations // December 2, 2014

There’s a trust that builds with longtime employees—one that seems above suspicion of wrongdoing. But not double-checking the books can have severe consequences. Embezzlement and other forms of financial fraud cause unrest in your school’s community, stress your financial plan, and can even force your institution into bankruptcy. The resulting scandals can drive away potential “investors” in your school, i.e., prospective families and donors, causing serious cash flow problems.

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What’s in Your "Pantry?" Winter Preparedness Tips

Business and Operations // December 2, 2014

Have you heard the joke that everyone seems to crave French toast whenever a blizzard or hurricane is forecast? It’s because all the eggs, bread, and milk fly off grocery store shelves as folks realize they haven’t properly stocked their pantries for potential power outages and travel restrictions. But there’s a lot more to stocking your school’s metaphorical pantry than food staples. Get your school’s campus prepared for winter weather with these winter preparedness tips!

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Ask ISM's Health Care Reform Specialist

Business and Operations // December 2, 2014

Q: I was trying to follow the case King v. Burwell but it got away from me with everything else happening. What might the effect of the Supreme Court hearing this case have on the ACA, and more specifically our school?

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The Board’s Role in Faculty Culture

Board of Trustees // November 25, 2014

Board-level strategic support of a healthy, growth-oriented faculty culture is critical for your school to sustain long-term programmatic excellence. The outcome of a healthy faculty culture is sustained/enhanced student performance, enthusiasm, and satisfaction. The faculty is, however, an operational responsibility and you, as a Trustee, should not interfere in teachers’ daily work. So, what are the strategic ways in which you can aid the School Head and Management Team in ensuring a healthy culture? What resources can you, as a Trustee, provide? Here are four key variables for your consideration.

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“Practice” Snow Days

School Heads // November 21, 2014

With winter weather quickly approaching—and Buffalo, New York, covered in several feet of snow—Cathedral High School in St. Cloud, Minnesota, decided to test its emergency weather protocols before it’s a real issue. A “practice snow day” was scheduled for November 21 using technologies and lessons designed specifically for at-home learning.

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Keep Your School Safe From Sexual Assault

School Heads // November 21, 2014

Sex scandals shake the foundations of the private schools at which they occur, but sexual misconduct can happen at any sort of school at any time—private, public, and charter alike, from K-12 schools to higher education. In fact, one Associated Press investigation found that more than 2,500 educators over five years were punished for sexual misconduct, and that's just those who were caught. As School Head, it’s your job to make student safety a priority for every school employee through policies, staff training, and security procedures.

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Paying for Recess: Families Transfer to Private Schools for Recess

Academic Leadership // November 17, 2014

Think back to your earliest school memories. Chances are, instead of a classroom of desks, you remember swing sets, impromptu races, and squabbles over who gets that color of chalk next for the hopscotch grid. However, recess is more than a mere repository of happy memories. Time and time again, research has shown that regular, active playtime is a crucial part of a student's education. Despite this, many public school districts are slashing their recess periods with no replacements—and many parents across the country are transferring to private schools to keep their children on the playground.

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