Community Corner
Community Corner

Stay current with the latest private-independent school news.

What are the latest trends impacting private-independent school enrollment? How can you be the most effective in your role as an administrator? How can you help your school meet its mission and best serve your students?

Check out Community Corner, a free blog from ISM.

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.

Closing the Risk Gap for Sexual Misconduct

Private School News // January 30, 2018

Accidents happen no matter how prepared your campus, faculty and staff, and students are. Sometimes bad things happen despite our efforts to prevent them. However, when the risks are culture-related, such as instances of sexual misconduct, there are many policies schools can implement to change those behaviors.

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Parent Involvement and ‘Stage-Setting’

Board of Trustees // January 24, 2018

It’s no surprise that research supports the notion that students fare better in school when their parents are involved in their education. However, what does “parent involvement” mean?

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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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