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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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These Jobs Are on the Rise in the U.S.—Will Your Students Be Prepared?
Private School News // December 21, 2017
Your school aims to give students the skills they need to flourish, eventually allowing them to find success in the professional world. But the professional world is changing as new fields and job categories emerge. How can you best prepare students to flourish in tomorrow’s job market?
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Be a Healthier You in 2018
Private School News // December 21, 2017
A new year signals that it’s time to list your resolutions for the coming months. However, approximately 80% of resolutions are abandoned by the second week of February, according to U.S. News. Don’t give up on yourself this year. Make resolutions for a healthier you that are obtainable and will make a positive impact on your life for 2018 and beyond.
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What to Do in Cases of Ex Officio Membership
Board of Trustees // December 19, 2017
Many Boards have ex officio members—that is, Trustees who hold a position on the Board based on their office within or outside a school. Thus the “term” served is dependent on the years spent in such offices.
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Have You Fully Addressed Bullying at Your School?
Board of Trustees // December 19, 2017
Bullying, in its many forms, has been a persistent problem in many schools. And, in private schools in particular, this is an immense concern to parents and students. Parents choose to send their children to your school in part because they consider your community safer than the public alternatives. Still, bullying can occur anytime, anywhere—and occasionally, despite your best efforts to educate.
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The Six Signs of a Toxic Teacher
Academic Leadership // December 13, 2017
You work closely with your faculty and staff every day within your school. You trust their judgement in the classroom, their desire to further your mission, and their dedication to helping your students succeed. But sometimes a teacher in your school doesn’t quite fit the mold. Their actions aren’t always in line with the school's mission or the needs of the students. They negatively influence the faculty culture, spreading gossip in the teacher’s lounge or complaining during meetings.
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Student Incentives: Do They Belong in Your School?
Academic Leadership // December 13, 2017
If you eat dinner, you get dessert. If you do your chores, you get an allowance. If you have perfect attendance for a full school year or get a certain grade on a test, you get a gift card? Student incentives like the last example are becoming more commonplace in schools around the world. From small incentives (like stickers or school supplies) to behavioral incentives (such as pizza parties or free time) and even financial rewards, any incentive program within your school must make sense for your culture and your mission.
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Three Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Annual Fund Appeal Letter
Advancement // December 12, 2017
Your school’s appeal letter is a core element of your annual fund campaign. It presents your mission to your donors and prospects, inviting them to make a gift to your school to further your cause and benefit your students. Your letter tells them why their gift makes a difference and assures them that their gift will be used as intended. It’s critical that the letter captures the reader’s attention and leaves a lasting positive impression.
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Small Tweaks That Can Make a Big Impact on Your Website
Advancement // December 12, 2017
Your website is among the first places a prospective family visits when researching your school. The website—and especially the home page—are your first chance to make your first impression. It should immediately communicate your mission, your vision for your students, and your place in the community.
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