From Idea to Impact

During the December Heads Virtual Roundtable, several SAIS school heads shared valuable research and resources they have utilized within their communities. The topics discussed ranged from enhancing the student experience and exceeding parent expectations to respectfully navigating challenging conversations that strengthen relationships. Read on to explore the slide deck to learn more about each resource, how it was applied by the head of school, and the meaningful impact it had on their school communities.

Parent Engagement That Works

While independent schools serve children, parents are the decision-makers and, thus, are your primary audience. Today’s parents differ from those in the past in many ways. To address this varied audience, guest writer Peyten Williams of Bowbend Consulting stresses the importance of understanding your audience and connect with parent populations. She offers three principles for planning parent programming that will increase the effectiveness and the appeal of your school events.

Structuring Faculty Compensation and Employment Agreements

Independent schools must navigate the challenge of designing competitive faculty compensation while establishing clear, comprehensive employment agreements. Schools need compensation models that reflect market realities and institutional values, alongside agreements that address essential teaching responsibilities, professional development, and policy compliance. January Essentials explores approaches to faculty compensation, peer school benchmarking, and best practices for creating employment agreements.

Cultivating Major Gifts

Major gifts are transformational contributions that can reshape an independent school's future, with thresholds varying from $5,000 to $1 million or more across institutions. This fundraising strategy centers on building authentic relationships with donors who deeply believe in the school's mission. Through careful identification and cultivation of potential supporters, schools can secure substantial investments that have extraordinary impact and advance institutional goals.

Academic Support Conference | February 9-11

If you’re looking for the latest research, resources, curriculum, and instructional strategies to support all learners in your school, consider attending the SAIS Academic Support Conference February 9-11 in Charlotte. This is a time to focus on the impact of anxiety on neurodivergent students as well as explore learning strategies and inclusive environments to support the learning of all students. Keynotes from psychologist Dr. Emily King and researcher Dr. Shelley Moore will explore the impact of anxiety on neurodivergent students and the evolution of inclusion. Plus, choose from four learning journeys for breakout sessions. Learn more at sais.org/asc.

Upcoming Events

Mark your calendar now and register today for these upcoming in-person professional learning opportunities.

Curriculum Symposium, February 11-12, 2025, Charlotte, NC

Institute for Athletic Directors, February 12-13, 2025, Charlotte, NC

DEI Institute, February 12-13, 2025, Charlotte, NC

Advancement Institute: Fundraising in the Age of AI, February 12-13, 2025, Charlotte, NC

Reception @NAIS Nashville, February 26, Nashville, TN