NAIS Governance Webinar Series: Using Structure Communication to Strengthen Head-Board Partnership

A strong head–board partnership is built not only on trust, but also on the structures and communication practices that sustain that trust over time. In an increasingly complex independent school environment, heads and boards need intentional ways to stay aligned on priorities, share information, navigate emerging challenges, and maintain clarity about their respective roles.

This webinar from the 2026–2027 NAIS Governance Webinar Series will explore how thoughtful governance structures and strategic communication can strengthen the head–board partnership. Participants will consider practices such as establishing clear communication agreements, creating effective meeting and reporting rhythms, determining what information the Board needs and when, and developing structures for addressing difficult issues before they become sources of misalignment. Through practical examples and reflection, participants will leave with concrete strategies for building a partnership characterized by clarity, candor, trust, and shared understanding.

Presenters: 

• Alona Scott, head of school, The Buckley School (CA)
• Anne-Marie Balzano, senior strategist for leadership alignment and governance, NAIS