June 23-25, 2025 | Alderbrook Lodge

Sessions and Speakers

Optional Pre-Conference Session for Assistant and Division Heads: 

Monday, June 23, 2025 - 10:00am-12:00pm

Hiring Trends in Independent Schools

Hiring and retaining great educators is essential work in independent schools...and harder to do than ever before. In this session, we'll look at the data to uncover what's changed in a post-COVID world, and then explore strategies for mitigating the challenges. Leave with a greater understanding of the complexities of the current hiring landscape and with practices to employ on campus.

Conference Keynote Session: 

Monday, June 23, 2025 -2:30-5:00pm

The New Realities for Academic Leaders: Navigating Change in Independent Schools

Throughout the school year, Academic Leaders expertly balance dozens of competing priorities, dealing with the day-to-day impacts of these challenges. However, Academic Leaders are finding that the old playbook is no longer sufficient for the challenges we face today. This session will explore how issues like Generative AI, student mental health, and community polarization are influenced by larger cultural forces. By examining these trends through a broader lens, participants will uncover fresh approaches to solving problems that seem insurmountable under traditional frameworks.

About Brad Rathgeber

Brad Rathgeber is the president and CEO of One Schoolhouse, a non-profit organization that partners with independent schools to advance their diverse approaches to education. One Schoolhouse has two primary programs, an online, supplemental Academic Program, and the Association for Academic Leaders. Rathgeber has been leading the organization for 12 years. Previously he worked as an administrator and teacher at Holton-Arms School. Rathgeber is an independent school graduate, holds an undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina, and holds a graduate degree from Dartmouth College.

Panel and Discussion on Trends In Independent School Leadership

Panel Session

Tuesday, June 24, 2025 - 9:00-10:00

Panel: Trends Shaping the Future of Independent School Education
Independent schools are facing rapid change. This panel will explore how schools can respond to these challenges while staying true to their mission. This dynamic panel brings together NWAIS leaders and educators to explore the three themes raised by Brad in the opening session: the rise in student mental health needs, the integration of generative AI into learning and administration, and the growing impact of community polarization on school culture. Each will speak to how these have impacted their work and schools.
 
Panelists:
• David  Zimmand, Head of School, Seattle Jewish Community School
• Miryam Harvey, Dean of Faculty and Students, Seattle Girls School
• Maria Mathiesen, Upper School Counselor, Bush School 
• Kelly Vikstrom, Director of Library and Instructional Technology, The Overlake School
• DuChanté Davis, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, Charles Wright Academy
• Dr. Connie Kim-Gervey, Director of Equity and Inclusion, Catlin Gabel School

Conference Workshop Session

Tuesday, June 24, 2025 - 2:00-4:00pm

Cultivating Curiosity

Curiosity is the cornerstone of a vibrant school culture. As a leader, embracing curiosity means asking great questions, seeking new perspectives, and challenging the status quo. It's also how you navigate complexities, embrace change, and foster collaboration within your team and school. In this session, you’ll explore how curiosity drives connection and growth while learning to spark curiosity-driven conversations that build trust. By understanding the pivotal role curiosity plays in creating bonds, you will leave inspired and equipped to cultivate a culture of curiosity in yourself, your team, and your school.

Concluding Session

Wednesday, June 25, 2025 - 9:00-11:30am

Purposeful Leadership: Understanding Your Why

Effective leadership begins with a clear sense of purpose. In this session, we will explore the "why" behind your leadership and how it shapes your ability to inspire and guide others. You’ll create a personalized leadership dashboard, engage in meaningful reflection, and clarify your mission, values, and areas for growth. Through guided exercises and collaborative discussions, you’ll assess your leadership style, define your core purpose, and develop strategies for self-reflection and continuous improvement. Walk away with practical tools and thought-provoking questions to help you stay aligned with your purpose and lead your school community with clarity and intention.

with Susanne Carpenter,

Principal and Founder of Carpenter Leadership Consulting

Susanne Carpenter is the principal and founder of Carpenter Leadership Consulting- a leadership consulting and executive coaching firm focused on helping leaders and leadership teams become high-performing and strategy-focused.

Channeling her own experience as a leader, Susanne empowers leaders to unlock their full potential, fostering confidence, effectiveness, and success. She tailors engagements to help leaders cultivate the necessary tools and strategies to manage their teams and organizations more effectively. Her goal is to help her clients reach their fullest potential and lead with impact. She believes that when leaders are at their best, their organizations thrive.Susanne is a graduate of Westover School and received her B.A. from Wheaton College. She is a Certified Executive Coach (CEC), an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) through the International Coaching Federation, a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach, and a Certified Team Coach. She currently sits on the Board of Trustees at Westover School. She lives in the Boston area with her husband and daughter.

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