Here we are again, graduations and the end of school behind us. We've had the Memorial Day weekend to relax and reflect, and I imagine you are already thinking about your plans for summer and the coming year.

This end of year was especially poignant as it marks the end of my tenure as the president of SAIS. I cannot express what a remarkable privilege it has been to lead your association and represent independent schools. I have treasured the many opportunities I've had to learn about you and your schools, as well as the ability to take part in conversations about the future of education. Just eight years ago when I started this position, we faced an uncertain climate and many daunting changes in technology, parental expectations, and school business models. As the dust settles in the economy, independent schools are poised to be leaders in our field, preparing young minds to be the future leaders of our country and world. So while I am sad to leave this position, I could not be more excited about what this next chapter holds for all of us. 

With respect and gratitude,

Still finalizing plans for summer? Sign up for one of SAIS's many institutes and get your career moving in the right direction! Whether you are a new teacher, a seasoned administrator, an assistant to the head, or the head of school, SAIS would like to partner with you in your development. Moreover, SAIS events allow you to expand your professional network while brainstorming with colleagues. Get outside of your classroom, school, or office and see what other leaders are doing in the field of independent schools.  >>Read more.  >>Visit our events page to sign up!

At its summer meeting, the board of trustees will begin work on a new strategic plan for the association. Ian Symmonds of Ian Symmonds & Associates will be serving as a consultant to the group. Once the plan is in draft form, the trustees will seek reactions from member schools with the goal of sharing the major features of the plan at the annual conference. Dennis Manning (Norfolk Academy) who serves as Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee commented:  "This is a dynamic moment for SAIS as we emerge from a national search with a sense of excitement and confidence about the impressive, seasoned and visionary leadership that Kirk Walker, our new president, will bring to SAIS. Our board, with the involvement and investment of our full membership, wants to develop a strategic plan that will guide the organization to even greater heights."