2026 Small Schools Summit
Hilton Charlotte University Place
8629 JM Keynes DrCharlotte, NC
Small schools thrive on close community, shared leadership, and mission-driven work, but they also face distinct challenges that require focused strategy and collaboration.
The Small Schools Summit is designed for leaders from small independent schools. This event provides a tailored experience that addresses the unique challenges and opportunities of small school leadership, with three dynamic keynotes: Small by Design: Community & Building Your Unique Value Proposition; Sustainable Funding Models for Small Schools; and Governance, Growth & Moving Forward.
Be empowered with learning pathways built around three key challenges: financial sustainability, strategy & systems, and people & team.
What You'll Learn:
• Targeted resources aligned to your school’s most pressing priorities
• A peer network facing similar realities
• Practical next steps you can implement immediately
Join us to learn strategies that can move the needle and make a difference while connecting with a network of peers facing similar challenges.
This event targets the particular needs of schools with enrollments of 500 students or fewer, annual budget of $6 million or less, or schools serving students in PK-grade 8, but attendees from independent schools of any size are welcome to attend.
Registration:
By February 27: Members $695 | Non-Members $829- By April 10: Members $795 | Non-Members $929
- By June 5: Members $895 | Non-Members $1,029
- By June 17: Members $995 | Non-Members $1,129
- After June 17: Members $1,095 | Non-Members $1,329
HOTEL RESERVATIONS: Hilton Charlotte University Place | 8629 JM Keynes Drive | Charlotte, NC 28262
- Group rate: $179
- Cut-off date: May 22 or when the block is full (whichever comes first)
- Reservation link here.
The hotel block is now open. If you receive an error message or if the block is full, please contact info@sais.org.
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.
Event Policies & Acknowledgments
- For questions about event registration or special accommodations, contact info@sais.org.
- For questions about speakers and sessions, contact elizabeth@sais.org.
- For questions about exhibiting, contact anna@sais.org.