you to revisit some of our favorite blog posts from the year. And if you’re inspired to make “write for the blog” your New Year’s resolution, send us your pitches and ideas anytime at ismag@nais.org.
Technology
The most compelling work in ed tech this year wasn’t about the latest tool or platform—it was about aligning tools with mission. Schools explored how technology can amplify engagement, strengthen creativity, and foster accountability. When innovation serves learning, students gain the agency to explore, build, and iterate.
Navigating the AI Revolution: Values Over Tech Trends
“I am investing in the future of education where technology serves as a tool rather than a dominant force,” writes Alexandra Sundman, head of middle school at Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart (MD). “In this vision, innovation is measured by student engagement instead of algorithms—and students learn not just to adapt to change but to shape it.” In this post, Sundman urges educators to be intentional and prioritize the enduring values of education over digital noise.
How AI Can Feed the Perpetual Learning Machine
“Learning shouldn’t be something that merely happens to students while they sit in a classroom—it should be an intentional, purpose-driven pursuit,” writes Brendan Hoyle, director of arts and innovation at Norfolk Collegiate (VA). “This idea captures the essence of the perpetual learning machine: student agency sparking creativity, which fuels accountability, creating an ongoing cycle of growth and discovery.” In this post, Hoyle explains how giving students a voice in how to approach AI empowers them to take ownership of their learning.
Well-Being
Well-being is at the heart of every thriving school community. This year, our conversations moved beyond academics to focus on what it means to truly matter—to feel seen, valued, and supported. From nurturing environments where every voice is heard to fostering integrity and trust in students, our community explored how independent schools can build spaces where growth and belonging flourish.
“At their best, schools don’t just serve students; they serve teachers, families, and communities,” writes Meghan Chew, the director of excellence in teaching at Greens Farms Academy (CT). “They’re more than academic institutions. They’re spaces where people gather, grow, belong, and matter.” In this post, Chew explains why independent schools are uniquely equipped to build environments where every community member feels seen, valued, and needed.
What Kids Are Really Doing When They Don’t Tell the Truth
“Our goal isn’t just to get kids to follow the rules—it’s to help them become people of integrity,” writes Patrick J. Campbell, assistant head of middle school for student life at Pace Academy (GA). “This kind of growth doesn’t come from fear; rather, it comes from trust, connection, and the belief that honesty is safe, even when it’s hard.” In this post, Campbell explains how to respond when kids lie in a way that invites reflection and growth.
Leadership
Leading independent schools is a demonstration of vision, courage, and adaptability. This year, our community explored what it means to guide schools through change, uncertainty, and opportunity, and reminded us that leadership is about serving others, building trust, and inspiring hope.
“The interim moment is a rare opportunity to take a breath and assess the mission, the market, and to look around the corner on behalf of the entire school community,” writes Craig Sellers, the interim head of school at Princeton Friends School (NJ). “It allows for a short-term reset that can recalibrate a long-term path.” In this post, Sellers shares lessons learned about how schools and boards can set the stage for success in the interim head role.
What Courage and Resilience Look Like
In this post, Rob Evans and Michael Thompson reflect on their observations after visiting five independent school communities that were devastated by the Los Angeles wildfires. “We came away from our visit impressed by the enormity of the tasks at hand and by the courage, resilience, and extraordinary creativity of the educators and administrators working to save their schools,” write Evans and Thompson, school consultants and co-authors of Hopes and Fears: Strengthening the Relationship with Today’s Independent School Parents. “We were touched and impressed by all they were doing—and by how, despite terrible obstacles, they were coping remarkably.”
Thank you for being a part of our community, and happy holidays!