2025 Pre-Conference Workshops

Speakers: Connie White, Woodward Academy, and Elizabeth Helfant, Ravenscroft

Prepare your school to navigate the rapidly evolving educational landscape. Join this pre-conference workshop to develop strategies to implement curriculum mapping, AI integration, mastery-based grading, and the “Portrait of a Graduate” framework. We will align teaching and learning with the skills students need for an uncertain future, emphasizing critical thinking, adaptability, and real-world problem-solving. We will understand how to leverage data-driven decision-making to enhance student achievement and support instructional growth.

Join us to build a future-focused school culture that empowers educators and ensures long-term success. This session provides independent school leaders with actionable strategies to implement these trends in a way that preserves their school’s unique identity while fostering innovation. By preparing educators and students for an evolving world, leaders can sustain excellence, attract  families, and position their schools as leaders in education.

REGISTRATION FEE:

• Full Conference Registrant (with promo code): $95 member / $119 non-member
• Sunday Only: $245 member / $299 non-member

Speaker: Dr. Carrie Grimes, Vanderbilt University

What keeps early career teachers in their roles—and what compels them to leave? This workshop presents findings from a year-long study exploring the experiences of early career educators in SAIS independent schools, with a focus on what contributes to their sense of connection, satisfaction, and long-term commitment. Drawing on survey data and participant insights, the session will highlight patterns in recruitment and retention and invite school leaders to reflect on how their institutional practices, cultures, and relationships can strengthen teacher belonging and engagement. Participants will leave with actionable takeaways to support the growth and stability of their early career faculty.

REGISTRATION FEE:

• Full Conference Registrant (with promo code): $95 member / $119 non-member
• Sunday Only: $245 member / $299 non-member

Speaker: Dr. Brett Jacobsen, SAIS

This dynamic workshop is designed for heads of school and trustees to explore the Governance Health Index—a framework that defines six core competencies essential for effective, mission-aligned governance in today’s evolving educational landscape. Together, we’ll examine each competency, reflect on board and leadership roles, and use a practical self-assessment tool to evaluate your school’s current governance health. Whether you’re looking to strengthen collaboration, clarify strategic direction, or enhance accountability, this session will offer actionable insights and meaningful dialogue to help your board operate at its highest potential. Heads, board chairs, and trustees are welcome and will benefit from attending together.

REGISTRATION FEE:

• Full Conference Registrant (with promo code): $95 member / $119 non-member
• Sunday Only: $245 member / $299 non-member

Speakers: Ari Betof, Mission & Data, and Christian Dotchin, EMA

This workshop will explore practical, data-informed strategies to ensure schools meet enrollment goals while complementing core mission and promoting long-term financial sustainability. Participants will explore how to assess market demand, differentiate in crowded markets, better communicate the value of their programs, and refine tuition and financial aid models to support accessibility and institutional goals.

The session will include discussion about perceived value and affordability and share data from the Enrollment Management Association’s (EMA) 2025 report, An Independent School Education: Family Perceptions of Value and Affordability. We will examine strategies to engage families, attract mission-fit students, and adapt to shifts in affordability and demographics. Real-world independent school examples, tools, and actionable frameworks will empower school leaders and trustees to align their enrollment strategies with both their mission and the financial realities of the community they serve.

REGISTRATION FEE:

• Full Conference Registrant (with promo code): $95 member / $119 non-member
• Sunday Only: $245 member / $299 non-member

Speakers: 

• Pat Cuneo, SAIS Director of Accreditation
• Jo Stoltz, SAIS Assistant Director of Accreditation

Are you involved in administering your school’s upcoming SAIS accreditation visit? This workshop includes a step-by-step overview of the accreditation process and offers the opportunity to ask questions in an informal setting. Open to SAIS members only.

REGISTRATION FEE:

• Full Conference Registrant: $0 (with promo code)
• Sunday Only: $125