February 2025

R&R is a monthly digest curating a selection of the latest research findings, innovative practices, and valuable resources. Filtered through your unique mission and vision, explore and grow in navigating the ever-evolving educational landscape. Take some needed R&R. 

The Broken Feedback Loop: How Unexplained Decisions Erode Trust


When school leaders solicit employee input before making decisions but fail to explain their final choices, they create a "broken feedback loop." The NeuroLeadership Institute's SCARF model sheds light on why such unexplained decisions damage trust and morale. The model identifies five key social domains that influence behavior: Status, Certainty, Autonomy, Relatedness, and Fairness.

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Independent Schools’ Advantage in the Hiring Market


While compensation is crucial in independent schools, NBOA President Jeffrey Shields shares how John Castro’s eight reasons employees stay might apply to our schools. While a competitive salary makes the list, it is just one of the eight among meaningful work within a positive culture and job stability. The list includes feeling valued and respected, seen, and appreciated, reminding schools that our communities are places where people want to work.

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Seven Strategies for Getting the Most Out of Peer Feedback in the Classroom


Failing up, John Spencer shares lessons learned on how to empower students in the feedback process. This resource offers both podcast and text versions with several explanatory videos. After establishing an environment of trust, he offers seven different feedback structures and encourages teachers to explain the purpose of feedback. Spencer differentiates between peer assessment and peer grading while setting parameters, expectations, and modeling the process.

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Retention Realities for Independent Schools: Strategies for Building a Comprehensive Plan


While some attrition is inevitable, schools can implement comprehensive retention strategies through a team-based approach. Kathie Wachs with Kalix Marketing Group outlines key elements of a retention plan that include tracking potential departures, understanding underlying reasons, engaging all staff in retention efforts, and handling transitions gracefully. With regular retention team discussions, proactive family engagement, and transparent communication about financial matters, schools can proactively address possible departures.

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New & Aspiring Leaders Institute

April 6-8, 2025, Birmingham, AL

 

Whether you’ve been newly appointed to a leadership role or you’re looking for a refresher on how to best lead others, develop your leadership style during the SAIS New & Aspiring Leaders Institute in Birmingham, AL.

 

You'll foster self-awareness of your strengths and potential leadership pitfalls, as well as discover how to build and lead effective teams, how to foster connection and collaboration, and how to develop a growth plan for the future.

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