2025 Institute for Administrative Assistants
This program provides practical resources, helpful tips, and networking opportunities for administrative assistants in an independent school, whether serving in a department, division, or the head’s office.
Learn practical strategies for handling the types of issues related to supporting an independent school administrator. Network with other assistants to share time-saving tricks and proven solutions.
While this program is open to non-members, please note that registration is limited to those from schools that meet the SAIS membership criteria.
Registration
|
Member |
Non-Member |
|
|
Through April 11 |
$675 |
$799 |
|
April 12-May 23 |
$775 |
$899 |
|
After May 23 |
$875 |
$999 |
Westin Sarasota
- Group rate: $169
- Cut-off date: May 19 or when the block is full
- Reservation link
- Additional fees:
- Destination fee: $11/day
- Valet parking: $30/day
NOTE: SAIS does not utilize the services of a housing vendor for any events. Neither SAIS nor the hotel will call you to make reservations over the phone. Occasionally unauthorized third parties may attempt to coordinate your reservations. Please use only the above hotel links to secure your reservation directly with the hotel.
If you receive an error message or if the block is full, please contact learn@sais.org
Wednesday, June 11
1:00-2:00 PM Registration
3:30-4:00 PM Break
5:00-6:00 PM Reception
Thursday, June 12
8:00-9:00 AM Breakfast
session explores pathways to leadership, highlighting roles such as chief of staff, strategic
initiative manager, and chief operating officer—roles that extend beyond traditional
support functions. We’ll discuss how EAs can position themselves for leadership by
building key skills, increasing visibility, and embracing operational and strategic
responsibilities. Whether you're looking to enhance your influence or transition into a
senior administrative role, this discussion will provide insights and actionable steps to
support your professional growth.
10:00-10:30 AM Break
of educational institutions. Participants will gain practical knowledge in three critical areas:
- Communication protocols with parents, students, faculty, and external stakeholders that minimize legal exposure while maintaining positive relationships.
- Proper procedures for handling and responding to subpoenas, including documentation requirements and administrative responsibilities.
- Understanding confidentiality obligations in the educational setting and implementing
best practices to avoid common legal pitfalls.
This interactive session will provide administrative professionals with the foundational
knowledge needed to confidently handle sensitive situations while protecting both themselves and their institutions from potential liability.
11:30-11:45 AM Break
12:45-1:45 PM Lunch
3:15-3:45 PM Break
Friday, June 13
8:00-9:00 AM Breakfast
face two kinds of expectations—outer expectations (meet work deadlines, answer a
request from a friend) and inner expectations (keep a New Year’s resolution, start
meditating).” Your unique response to expectations determines your Tendency, which
we’ll explore in this breakout session designed to harness your strengths and foster a
better understanding of your colleagues. Discover how knowing your Tendency can help
you make better decisions, meet deadlines, fulfill promises to yourself, and engage
positively with others at your school.
Speaker: Betsy Knight, Ensworth School
A teacher has called in sick AND… a sub is needed; a door is broken; five children haven’t been accounted for in advisory; a parent is waiting for you on the phone; a child is in the bathroom throwing up; security has a car with their lights on; your principal needs you to schedule a few meetings; two rooms need to be reserved for meetings after school; you need to order lunches for an event; the copier is jammed; a teacher needs to meet with your head; and athletics just notified you the early dismissal for the baseball team has been moved up an hour.
Is it possible to be everything to everyone every minute of every day? Probably not! But, there are ways to ensure that you successfully prioritize tasks, complete those tasks, and still make time to work on your “to do” list. Join us as we explore tools that can streamline your workload, help you stay on schedule, and perhaps even help you stay sane throughout the day.
10:00-10:30 Break
11:30 AM Adjourn
Transportation
From a variety of airports, free shuttles, and city-operated ride shares, Sarasota makes it easy to explore. Check out local transportation options here. Don't miss the $2 airport shuttle!
Restaurants
From casual to elegant and pub grub to high end, enjoy the diverse culinary landscape and the talented local chefs who bring it to life. In the foodie department, there’s something for every palate, from French to Vietnamese to burgers to seafood.
Discover delicious local dining options here. Most are within easy walking distance of the Westin Sarasota.
Attractions
Downtown Sarasota is a vibrant cultural and civic center offering theaters, boutiques, art galleries, trendy restaurants, and quaint cafes.
Visitors and residents alike enjoy Sarasota’s walkable city lifestyle capped off by stunning sunsets and easy access to botanical gardens, a circus museum, an aquarium, and a variety of water adventures. Explore local attractions here.
With the casual elegance of downtown, beautiful public parks, and the #1 beach in the country, Sarasota offers the best of both worlds.
Speakers
Vallie Collins, Motivational Speaker
Claudia Cruz, Executive Assistant to the Head of School & CFO, Providence Day School
Sarah Hanawald, Executive Director, Association for Academic Leaders
Betsy Knight, Administration Assistant to High School Leadership, Ensworth
Elizabeth Maglio, Director of Professional Learning, SAIS
Jenna Pirani, Executive Assistant to the Head of School, Randolph School
Lori Smith, Education Lawyer, Zimmerman, Kiser & Sutcliffe, P.A.
Event Policies & Acknowledgments
- For questions about event registration or special accommodations, contact learn@sais.org