All Resources

The High Strategic Value of an Interim Head: A Conversation with Ralph Wales

Choosing an interim head of school doesn’t have to be a backup plan—it can be the most strategic option for a school in transition. Conventional wisdom suggests that when a head of school leaves their post, a new one must […]

Four Benchmarks that Predict a Successful Capital Campaign

What makes some capital campaigns wildly successful while others barely hit their goals? Over their 18 years of experience helping schools meet their development goals, the Winkler Group has identified four essential elements for successful campaigns. A Big and Inspiring […]

Student Pregnancy: Considerations for Schools in a Changing Legal Landscape

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Winter Conference Preview: Helping All Learners SOAR 

We all know the Tina Turner song “What’s Love Got to Do with It?” In my work, I’ve changed this foundational question to be, “What’s self-esteem got to do with it?” For a child who struggles to learn, the answer […]

Values That Bind and Divide Us: Insights Gained Along “Wisdom Road”

Along Wisdom Road, I have heard the following statements: “My parents valued education above all else.” “What farmers need is more free markets and fewer bailouts by the government.” “We welcome with open arms anyone from anywhere who is willing […]

Essential Coaching Questions for New Leaders

“Imposter Syndrome” is a Great Sign Philosopher Oliver Burkeman writes: “Remember: the reason you can’t hear other people’s inner monologues of self-doubt isn’t that they don’t have them. It’s that you only have access to your own mind.” The experience […]

The Power of Process: Four Steps to Help Your School Make Stronger Strategic Decisions 

When consulting with heads, boards, and leadership teams at independent schools of all sizes, configurations, and geographic locations, we are often asked to advise on critical strategic questions that can have long-lasting implications. Should your school add a new section […]

Fundraising Trends – How Does Your School Compare?

Heads of school often have a plethora of comparative data at their fingertips to assist in analyzing their schools’ programs. From academics and admission to athletics, there is no lack of resources to provide benchmarking data. However, when it comes […]

Using Data Science to Enhance Your School’s Perceived Value and Financial Vitality

What matters most to your school families? And how are you doing in meeting their needs, relative to what they are paying? Exploring the answers to these questions is key to ensuring strong, steady enrollment. Indeed, schools that achieve high […]

Update: Nonprofit Status and Federal Financial Assistance

SAIS recently joined the National Association of Independent Schools, National Business Officers Association, the Association of Independent Schools of Greater Washington, the Virginia Association of Independent Schools, the North Carolina Association of Independent Schools, and the Palmetto Association of Independent […]