In this episode, we talk with Debra Wilson, President of NAIS, about the challenges facing independent school leaders today. We explore topics ranging from managing technology and data to navigating complex governance issues and supporting students' well-being.

Resources

• National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)
• Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS)
• Trustee Handbook, resource from NAIS serving as a guide to the fundamentals of good governance from the unique perspective of independent schools
• New View EDU, podcast from NAIS featuring thought leaders from inside and outside the world of education to share their views on the purpose and nature of school
• Debra’s go-to podcasts
• Class Disrupted, with Diane Tavenner and Michael Horn
• EconTalk
• Future U
• The Prof G Pod, with Scott Galloway
• Work Life, with Adam Grant
• Biscuits and Jam, from Southern Living
• Freakonomics
• NPR News Now, the latest news in five minutes
• The Anxious Generation, book by Jonathan Haidt which argues that the spread of smartphones, social media and overprotective parenting have led to a "rewiring" of childhood and a rise in mental illness.

Transitioning into a new technology leadership role at an independent school presents unique challenges and opportunities. Two technology leaders share their insights on navigating these transitions, from establishing a vision and fostering team dynamics to managing change and building trust within the school community. This episode provides valuable guidance for current and aspiring technology leaders in independent schools.

Resources

• Ravenscroft School
• Marlborough School
• FolioCollaborative, flexible, paperless, cloud-based experience for managing and guiding professional growth and learning, and encouraging collaboration among faculty and staff
• Technology Leaders in Independent Schools (TLIS) certification, differentiating independent school technology leaders by identifying those with the appropriate skills and experience, as well as commitment to ongoing professional development, to manage with excellence their complex and ever-changing role
• Community-building resources from ATLIS
• Management Time: Who’s Got the Monkey?, article from Harvard Business Review

In this episode, we explore the thoughtful integration of technology in education, with a focus on supporting students with learning differences. We discuss strategies for evaluating and implementing ed tech tools to create accessible and effective learning environments. Dr. Joan McGettigan shares insights on balancing innovation with proven pedagogical practices, and the importance of collaboration between IT and Ed Tech departments.

Resources

• World Economic Forum job outlook
• Lower Student AI Literacy Predicts Higher Propensity to Use AI on Assignments (AIforEducation. IO)
• “How AI Vaporizes Long Term Learning” - Edutopia
• “AI Tutors: Hope or Hype for Education? Education Next
• THE 2025 Predictions: AI’s Impact on Education - The Journal

In this engaging discussion, Barry Kallmeyer, a seasoned technology director, shares his insights on the evolution of the CIO role in independent schools. He delves into the importance of strategic planning, the value of data-driven decision-making, and the critical aspects of leadership, such as succession planning and fostering a collaborative community.

Resources

• Hathaway Brown School
• Zork (playable), text-based adventure game
• Cleveland Browns, struggling American football team
• Philadelphia Eagles, Super Bowl LIX champions known for especially obnoxious fans
• Owl & Hybrid Learning, website built during COVID & shared with the community; highlighted by OWL directly
• Productivity Tools for 2025: Project Management with Asana and Slack, ATLIS webinar
• Scribe, tool to capture how-to content
• IT Glue, IT documentation software
• Technology Leaders in Independent Schools (TLIS) certification, credential demonstrating that a person has the skills and experience to effectively perform the role
• TLIS Prep Program
• TLIS Study Guide
• ATLIS 360 Self-Study Guide, Companion Manual, and Rubric, tools providing a plan to evaluate how your school utilizes technology and the effects it has on the school
• Max Action Arena, VR zombie game at Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, NV
• Center for Institutional Research of Independent Schools (CIRIS), provides resources and support for institutional research practitioners
• Mission & Data, integrated consulting, custom data products, and executive coaching services

In this episode, we explore the evolution of modern learning and the shift towards prioritizing innovation in education. We discuss strategies for integrating AI as a thought partner and examine the importance of developing critical inquiry skills from early childhood to prepare students for an uncertain future.

Resources

• Jared Colley on LinkedIn
• Mount Vernon Ventures, the Research, Development & Consulting division of The Mount Vernon School
• Imagine Then, Act Now: Futures Literacy for Learning Organizations, MV Ventures’ Spring 2024 Transformation R&D Report for education professionals and leaders
• A People-Centered Organization Living in an AI World, MV Ventures’ Summer 2023 Transformation R&D Report for education professionals and leaders
• “How might we build skills for life through eSports?”, article
• How Does Competitive eSports Shape Personal Growth and Real-World Skills?, podcast episode
• What are the trends, issues, and opportunities for implementing Al in schools?, podcast episode
• And What Do You Mean By Machine Learning?, article
• How Can Future’s Literacy Transform Organizational Success?, podcast episode
• Little Learners with Big Ideas: A Field Guide for Design Thinking
• AI, What's Your Position, Not Your Policy: A Scenarios-Based Approach to Strategic Foresight in the Age of Structural Uncertainty, article by Jared Colley on RootedEdu.com
• Creating Assessments with Complexity in the Age of AI, a guide to developing assessment complexity
• Using Future Studies To Cope with Top Challenges: School leaders need to envision multiple possible outcomes when facing risks and opportunities., article by Jared Colley, from NetAssests on NBOA.org
• Artificial Intelligence + Academic Integrity, a resource for teachers using a scenarios-based approach

In this episode of the ATLIS podcast, we dive into the challenges and opportunities facing technology leaders in independent schools, with insights from a leader in educational technology recruitment. We explore the importance of advocating for the value of technology departments, strategies for career advancement, and the evolving expectations of technology leaders. Gain valuable perspectives on navigating leadership roles and fostering a deeper understanding of technology's critical role in schools.

Resources

• 12M & Ed Tech Recruiting, management consulting and strategic hiring for schools
• ATLIS Compensation Benchmark Report 2025
• ATLIS Interactive Compensation Benchmark Dashboard

In this episode, technology leaders from independent schools discuss the complexities of their evolving roles. They share insights on managing AI integration, ensuring data privacy, and developing comprehensive business continuity plans. The conversation also explores strategies for fostering strong technology departments and the importance of community and collaboration in navigating the challenges of technology leadership.

Resources

• Knowledge-ABLE: Igniting a New Generation of Lifelong Learners, book providing a framework for effective learning that extends beyond traditional education
• UpLearn, LLC, educational consulting company
• The Pingry School
• New Jersey Association of Independent Schools
• Link to episode “Christina and the Dudes”
• Skill Struck, online learning platform including “Chat for Schools”
• Resources, from National Business Officers Association (NBOA)
• Resources, from ATLIS
• ATLIS Leadership Institute
• Technology Leaders in Independent Schools (TLIS) certification
• Nick Burns, IT Guy, SNL sketch with Jimmy Fallon
• ATLIS Annual Conference 2025