NWAIS New Heads Institute

Two Days To Prepare New Heads for NWAIS Membership and Stepping Into Your New Role

July 30-31, 2026

Cedarbrook Lodge (SeaTac, WA)

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

The NHI gave me both the tools and the confidence to start my school year off with vision and strategies. It was immensely powerful to connect with such a diverse, passionate and talented group of leaders. I left the conference feeling excited about my new role rather than nervous about all of the things I still have left to learn.

– Past Attendee

Attending this conference is a must for new heads, whether you are brand new to the position or new to the region. It's a great opportunity to learn some new things, confirm some existing ideas, and to form connections with other HOS's in the association prior to the Fall Head's Conference.

– Past Attendee

Who Should Attend?

New and newer Heads of School are invited to attend. The program will be built around those that are stepping into headship this year or last year.  This is a small event, and generally has fewer than 10 attendees, providing an opportunity to build strong relationships with new colleagues. Centered on building relationships within the Association, attendees will learn about the many benefits of membership, experience valuable sessions, and take time for planning as you embark on new phase of your leadership journey.

Planning to Attend the NAIS Institute For New Heads?

These two programs are wonderful complements to each other.  One recommendation would be to attend the NWAIS institute in the summer you take on your role and the NAIS Institute once you have completed year one, or do both in the first year.  If you would like to hear more about the right order and fit for you, please call and discuss the opportunities with Emily McGrath, Associate Director.

This was invaluable time spent with colleagues and mentors. The return on my time and money spent for this Institute is incalculable.

– Past Attendee

Institute Programming Will:

• Help you match and manage a new school culture.
• Guide your understanding of regional and cultural dynamics in the Northwest.
• Connect you with a window into  “lessons learned” from veteran heads on building trust and developing strong working relationships with all constituencies.
• Discuss how to work with your board and board chair on moving your school forward.
• Support an understanding of the variety of outside resources available to help you and your school.
• Introduce you to local experts on legal risk management and financial reporting.
• Connect you with other Heads of School and your association
• Provide 1:1 coaching to help you plan for a thoughtful transition and launch into your new headship

Coming from the public school setting, the New Heads Institute provided me with insightful knowledge and valuable activities to help me transition to my new role as Head of School.

  – Past Attendee

Program Components & Format

This is a sample agenda based on previous years, to give you a sense of the flow of the event and types of topics covered. Exact topics and timing are subject to change.

Thursday, July 30, 2026

8:00 - 8:30  Light Breakfast, Introductions and Overview
8:30 - 9:15   Welcome to NWAIS
9:15  - 9:30 Agenda & Goals
9:30  - 10:30 Challenges & Opportunities
10:30 - 11:00 Break
11:00 - 12:00 Leadership Insights
12:00 - 12:30       Lunch
12:30 - 1:30 Working With Your Board
1:30 - 2:30 Entry Planning
2:30 - 3:00 Snack & Case Studies
3:00 - 4:00  Stories from Headship

5:00-7:00 Reception with Current Heads of School

Friday, July 31, 2026

8:00 - 9:00 Breakfast & Check-In
9:00 - 9:45 Put Me In, Coach! Executive Coaching Program
10:00 - 11:00 Entry Plan / Leader's Charter Work
11:00 - 1:00 Working Lunch and Presentation of Plans
1:00 Farewell, and Good Luck!

Add-On

Participation in Year-Long Cohort Support  Additional Fees Not Included

Throughout the year, you will be invited to connect with New Heads from NWAIS and other regional Associations to share your experiences  and learn from each other.

The cohort meetings will:

·       Establish a group to support you and develop relationships so that you can call each other in the future 

·       Provide a forum in which you can discuss various issues and problems you’re facing with your peers and an experienced head of school

·       Present you with information that will be of value to you in your first year and beyond.

A Year of Executive Coaching Additional Fees Not Included

In addition to the New Heads Institute programming, Heads new to their role can also be matched with an executive coach who can meet with you as challenges arise and support you as you navigate tricky waters. Last year NWAIS piloted this program. Feedback was powerful and the program has now received a grant from the EE Ford Foundation to replicate it in other accrediting associations.

Participation in this program will include regular meetings and access to your coach whenever necessary. The program is directed by Alan Sparrow, a former head of school and certified executive coach. A number of extraordinary leaders have been retained for the program so that participants can be matched with the right coach. NWAIS can help with the matchmaking and then participants will retain the coaches directly.

Attending this workshop is a fantastic way to begin your new headship. You will emerge with more confidence, a set of colleagues that you can draw upon for support, and a well-vetted plan to implement in your school. This is time well spent!

– Past Attendee

Faculty

The program will be led by Briel Schmitz, Head of School at Spruce Street School, Matt Culberson, Experienced Head of School, and Chris Watson, Incoming Executive Director of NWAIS.  The faculty will be joined by NWAIS staff and board members, and other guest speakers including current heads of school.

Briel Schmitz, Head of School at Spruce Street School (WA)

Chris Watson, Executive Director of NWAIS and Former Head of School, Soundview School (WA)

Matt Culberson, Former Head of Several NWAIS Schools Including: McGillis School (UT), Charles Wright Academy (WA), and Wasatch Academy (UT)  

Registration

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

Travel Reimbursement

NWAIS will cover a portion of travel costs incurred by member schools to attend professional development events.

Click here for travel share reimbursement form.

Cancellation Policy
Substitutions may be made any time prior to the conference. Written cancellations received by July 18, 2026 are eligible for a refund after a $75 cancellation fee. Cancellations received after July 18, 2026 are ineligible for any refund.

Attendees Will Be Eligible For Clock Hours And / Or STARS Credits

Attendees receive clock hours and STARS free of charge. The original clock hours form or your STARS certificate will be mailed back to you for your records. If you need to petition another agency for credits or you would like a certificate for your files, NWAIS is happy to provide one upon request at no charge.

Registration is open for this event!

Who

All NWAIS Heads of School are invited to welcome a newest cohort of NWAIS heads. Heads from across the association are invited to welcome participants of the New Heads Institute and begin to build community together. Refreshments and heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served. 

Where

Cedarbrook Lodge
18525 36th Ave S
Seattle, WA 98188

When

Thursday, July 30, 2026
5:00-7:00pm

Registering to Attend

Please RSVP by registering for the event. There is no charge to attend. 

You may also RSVP by reaching out to Jami Sheets, jsheets@nwais.org

Contact

Please contact Jami Sheets with any questions.

2026-27 Emerging Leaders Institute

Registration is open only to those who have applied and been accepted into the 26-27 cohort.

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

All registrations must be completed by July 24.

Program Description

Emerging Leaders is a year-long cohort-based program to develop independent school leaders. The program will support participants to take the next step in their career through reflective practice and building skills. Next steps may be toward taking on new responsibilities in their current role or taking on something completely new. Participants will meet monthly in person and via zoom, attend an opening retreat as well as NWAIS professional development programming. 

Participant Profile 

Participants may be currently serving in a variety of positions within their school including teacher, administrator, or staff. Ideal candidates are actively seeking out leadership opportunities. Teacher candidates should be well established in their classroom and looking to take on new responsibilities and/or roles although they may or may not be interested in leaving the classroom for administrative positions. Administrators and staff who have recently stepped into their roles will also be strong candidates.

Program Components  

Over the course of the one-year program, participants will participate in:

• Day-long opening retreat (August 2026) to kick off each year's learning and develop the cohort as a team and learning community. 

• Monthly cohort meetings. These will have a mix of content delivery and discussion.

• Seven Zoom meetings will take place from 3:15-5:00pm on Tuesday afternoons.

• Three afternoon workshops. Attendees are encouraged to attend in person but are able to Zoom in as well.

• One in-person workshop in January in the Seattle area

• One-on-one Sessions with a Coach who is currently serving in a leadership capacity in an NWAIS school. Sessions will focus on problems of practice and supporting participants personal leadership journey. Participants can expect at least three coaching sessions over the course of the year.  

• Participation in some NWAIS Professional Programming, including

  • Fall Educators Conference (October 9, 2026)
  • Leadership Institute (June 28-30, 2027)
  • Discounted access to one additional NWAIS online course of your choice (2026-27 Academic Year)

2026-27 Program Calendar  (Generally 2nd Tuesday, With The Exception of November to Avoid Veterans Day)

• August 14, 2026   |  Full Day Retreat  |  Location TBD

• September 8, 2026   |  3:00-5:00pm  |  Zoom

• October 9, 2026   |   Fall Educators Conference Meet-Up

• November 3, 2026   |   3:15-5:00pm  |  Zoom

• December 8, 2026   |   3:15-5:00pm  |  Zoom

• January 12, 2027   |   10:00-4:00pm  | In-person Meeting (Seattle)

• February 9, 2027   |   3:15-5:00pm  |  Zoom

• March 16, 2027  |   3:15-5:00pm  |  Zoom 

• April 27, 2027   |   1:00-4:00pm  |  Zoom Please Note Longer Session

• May 25, 2027  |   3:15-5:00pm  |  Zoom 

• June 28-30, 2027  |   Monday 10am - Wednesday 3pm  | Concluding session with ELI Cohort + NWAIS Leadership Institute 

Tuition

Tuition is inclusive of all components and event registration fees.

• Registration or the Fall Educators Conference (Lodging provided for our of town participants)
• $150 credit to be applied to the additional program or course of your choice
• Registration, Food, and Lodging for the Leadership Institute
• Coaching Sessions
• Programming and Materials

2026-27 Tuition Rates 

NWAIS Member Rate | $3150

Non-Member | $4675

Eligibility 

The Emerging Leaders Institute will serve approximately 20 participants. The cohort will begin with a required retreat in August 2026. The application will help you and the selection committee assess if this is the right time in your career to take on this program.

This program is open to those working in NWAIS schools. If you are not employed by a NWAIS member school and would like to participate, please contact Emily McGrath to see if you may qualify for a waiver.

Cancellation Policy  

Attendees register for the full year course with their initial payment and commit to participating in the full duration of the experience. We expect that their schools will support their participation for the full duration.

Occasionally outside circumstances may prevent participants from completing the program. In that case, participants who withdraw from the program by September 14 can receive a refund after a $250 cancellation fee. After September 14 of that academic year, no refunds will be given. Circumstances when this might happen include: personal illness, change in career objectives, moving out of the area, departing from their school etc.  

Substitutes:  Since the program is application based, participation is non-transferrable and no substitutes will be admitted for individual events or completion of future terms.   

Key Bridge:
Aligning Leadership, Marketing, and Admissions for Enrollment Growth 

An NWAIS workshop series to explore the intersection of leadership, marketing, and admissions and how from each seat, teams can build common language, goals, and strategy to bolster enrollment success. 

Monday, September 21, 2026 (9:00AM-10:00AM PT / 10:00AM-11:00AM MT)

Monday, October 5, 2026 (9:00AM-10:00AM PT / 10:00AM-11:00AM MT)

Audience

This interactive workshop series is designed for Heads of School, Admissions Directors, Marketing Directors, and Advancement teams. The sessions will be especially valuable for teams attending together who want shared language and a coordinated plan.

Workshop Series Description

Most enrollment problems get diagnosed as marketing problems. Not enough inquiries, not enough applications, not enough visibility. But when you trace them back, the breakdown is usually somewhere else: leadership and admissions working from different definitions of success, a marketing effort disconnected from what actually moves families to enroll, or a plan nobody is accountable for once the school year gets busy.

This three-session course is built for the people who sit at that intersection. Over three 60-minute sessions, participants will work through a practical framework for aligning leadership vision, marketing strategy, and admissions execution, then build a 90-day plan they can run when they get back to their desks. Sessions are spaced two weeks apart so participants can apply ideas between meetings and bring real situations back to the group.

This is a working course, not a lecture. Each session includes breakout discussion, peer problem-solving, and time to apply the material to your own school. Come with your actual enrollment challenges. You'll leave with a plan and the structures to hold it accountable.

Note: Each session builds on the last, so attending the full series will give you the most powerful results.

Format

Three 60-minute virtual sessions, two weeks apart. Each session includes presentation, breakout discussion, and applied work.

What You'll Leave With

By the end of the series, participants will have:

• A shared framework for aligning leadership, marketing, and admissions around enrollment growth
• A school-specific 90-day enrollment marketing plan built to their calendar and capacity
• A short list of the metrics actually worth tracking, and how to keep them visible
• An accountability cadence that keeps leadership and admissions aligned once the year gets busy

Session Descriptions

Monday, October 5, 2026 (9:00AM-10:00AM PT / 10:00AM-11:00AM MT)

The 90-Day Enrollment Marketing Plan

Monday, October 19, 2026 (9:00AM-10:00AM PT / 10:00AM-11:00AM MT)

Accountability and Execution for Enrollment Growth

The best plan fails if no one owns it once the school year gets busy. This closing session focuses on the structures that keep enrollment work on track: who owns what, how progress gets measured, and how leadership and admissions stay aligned when priorities compete.

We'll cover lightweight accountability systems that work for small teams, the handful of metrics worth tracking, and how to adjust strategy without abandoning the plan at the first sign of friction. Through anonymized examples, participants will see how schools sustained momentum past the initial push and built enrollment work into their regular operating rhythm.

By the end of the session, participants will have an accountability structure mapped to their 90-day plan and a method for reviewing progress with their team.

Breakout focus: Building your accountability structure and committing to a review cadence. 

About Our Facilitator: Karl Boehm 

Karl Boehm is the founder of Help One Hundred Schools and Chief Growth Strategist at Spiral Marketing, where he helps private and independent schools grow enrollment through strategy that aligns leadership, marketing, and admissions.

With more than a decade focused specifically on school enrollment, Karl works with heads of school, admissions directors, and boards to build marketing systems that fit how schools actually operate: lean teams, real budgets, and the realities of the enrollment calendar. His approach favors practical systems over complexity, and field-tested observation over theory.

Karl hosts the Help One Hundred Schools podcast and writes regularly for an audience of school leaders on enrollment marketing, positioning, and admissions strategy.

Registration 

Registration is NOW OPEN

Pricing

* Links to recordings will remain active for one month following each session.

Cancellation

Substitutions may be made any time prior to the workshop. Written cancellations received before the start of the course are eligible for a refund after a $50 cancellation fee. 

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

HEADS IN PARTNERSHIP (HiP)

September 2026 – May 2027

A Year-Long Cohort to Support Heads of School and Build Community

New this year! Meet with Heads of Schools of Similar Sizes  

Each year we will find a new way to organize groups to ensure you connect with new colleagues as well as to drive meaningful, dynamic conversations. 

Program Description

Independent school headship is unique, complex, nuanced, intense, and lonely. One helpful way to cope with the challenges is through sustained connection. HIP with provide an intimate community to provide that essential support and deepen the connection to NWAIS.

Heads in Partnership is a year-long, free, cohort-based program where 6-8 NWAIS Heads of School will meet regularly to connect, support and affirm each other. Participants will rotate light facilitation of the meetings. During your turn at facilitation you will be asked to bring a prompt, article or problem of practice to guide the conversation. A number of sample agendas will be provided at the onset of the program. 

Participants will:

• Work through problems of practice in community with a group of colleagues
• Wrestle with case studies and tricky scenarios
• Utilize suggested formats and resources as a starting place for meetings
• Build a lasting network of colleagues

Participants will meet monthly, either on Wednesday or Friday mornings. Participants will primarily meet via zoom and will have time to connect at the Fall Heads Meetings. The groups will conclude with a final meeting over lunch at the Spring Heads Meeting.

Eligibility 

This program is open to Heads and Interim Heads currently serving in NWAIS schools.

Group Composition

Groups will be 6-8 people. This size allows for a degree of intimacy, while still being large enough to bring varied perspectives and to keep the work going if a few people miss a session.

During registration attendees will select Monday or Friday Meetings (or that either will generally work). This year participants will also be able to select if they would like to be in a group that is based on school size. 

Facilitation

Participants will rotate light facilitation of the meetings. During your turn at facilitation you will be asked to bring a prompt, article or problem of practice to guide the conversation. A number of sample agendas will be provided at the onset of the program. This will allow for shared leadership and responsibility while keeping the program free of cost. The facilitator can choose to utilize these suggested formats or rely on emergent topics from the group

Program Components

Outcomes

Tuition

There is no cost to participate in this program.

Registration

Registrants are encouraged to sign up by September 1.

Proposed 2026-27 Meeting Dates

To facilitate finding a time that works for everyone, participants will sign up for Wednesday or Friday meetings. Meetings will take place at 9am PT / 10am MT.

Wednesday Meetings 

• September 30, 2026 - 9am PT / 10am MT
• November 4, 2026 - 9am PT / 10am MT
• November 16, 2026 - Lunch prior to Fall Heads Meeting
• January 27, 2027 - 9am PT / 10am MT
• February 24, 2027 - 9am PT / 10am MT  
• March 24, 2027 - 9am PT / 10am MT
• May 3, 2027 - Lunch during Spring Heads Meeting
  

Friday Meetings

• September 25, 2026 - 9am PT / 10am MT
• October 30, 2026 - 9am PT / 10am MT
• November 16, 2026 - Lunch prior to Fall Heads Meeting
• January 29, 2027 - 9am PT / 10am MT
• February 26, 2027 - 9am PT / 10am MT 
• March 19, 2027 - 9am PT / 10am MT
• May 3, 2027 - Lunch during Spring Heads Meeting
  

Once we have the groups constructed you will be sent meeting invites and zoom links.

A series of six one-hour webinars for independent school parents & caregivers offered in collaboration with 

School Leaders

The ISACS Parent Series has become a signature offering for independent schools—designed to elevate the parent experience and strengthen meaningful partnerships between school and home. This year, we’re excited to present another dynamic lineup of six one-hour webinars, thoughtfully curated to support parents and caregivers at every stage of their child’s journey.

Parents & Caregivers

You’re invited to join a vibrant community of independent school families for a series of six engaging evening webinars led by renowned and trusted experts. Each session is designed to offer practical insights, encouragement, and meaningful guidance—supporting you in your role as a parent while nurturing your child’s growth and well-being. We look forward to learning alongside you!

Explore More about Sessions and Speakers and Share the Excitement With Your School Community with This Interactive Series Brochure

Enrollment & Registration

Only one person needs to enroll your school. Your school pays only one fee. After enrolling, all who plan to attend the live webinars or access the recordings & resources must register on Zoom.

Registration Fee

$725 per school for NWAIS schools

Your enrollment fee covers your entire school community for all 6 webinars and includes access to all sessions and all recordings for anyone affiliated with your school, including parents and care givers, trustees, faculty, staff and administrators.

Series Overview

Session 1 | Tuesday, September 29, 2026

4:30-5:30pm PT / 5:30-6:30pm MT

School Readiness: Executive Function — Needed to "Do School"

With Presenter: Sarah Ward, M.S., CCC/SLP who has over 30 years' experience in the treatment of executive dysfunction.

Content is particularly useful to those with children in grades 3–12. 

Recording of this webinar will be available until December 31, 2026.

Session 2 | Tuesday, December 1, 2026

4:30-5:30pm PT / 5:30-6:30pm MT

The Power of Beliefs: How Strengthening Seven Core Beliefs Predicts Greater Success & A Better Life 

 

With presenter Shawn Achor who has become one of the world's leading researchers on the connection between a positive brain and success

Session 3 | Wednesday, January 13, 2027

4:30-5:30pm PT / 5:30-6:30pm MT

The Family Guide to Screen / Life Balance: What to Do About Tech & Kids

With presenter Catherine Price, science journalist, speaker, New York Times bestselling author, and a leading voice in the national conversation about how people of all ages can create healthy relationships with technology and live meaningful, fun lives.

Content is particularly useful to those with children under 13. 

Recording of this webinar will be available until June 30, 2027.

Session 4 | Tuesday, February 9, 2027

4:30-5:30pm PT / 5:30-6:30pm MT

Protecting Your Child in the Age of Deepfakes

Session 5 | Thursday, April 8, 2027

4:30-5:30pm PT / 5:30-6:30pm MT

How Temperament Shapes Who We Become: Why Some Children Need More than Others to Flourish

With presenter Aliza Pressman, PhD, developmental psychologist with nearly two decades of experience working with families and the health care providers who care for them.  

NWAIS Self Study Online Orientation

Friday, October 2, 2026

9:00 am-12:30 pm PT

Will you be contributing to your school’s upcoming self study?

Are you hosting a Visiting Team in 2027-28, 2028-29 or 2029-30?

Do you want to learn more about the NWAIS accreditation process?

Schools hosting accreditation visits in the coming two years are strongly encouraged to send a team to this orientation.

Join us for an informational session and the opportunity to ask questions and share ideas with teams from other schools also in the self study process, led by NWAIS' Director of Accreditation, Betsy Watkins.

Come to learn more about:

• How the Self Study fits into the accreditation process
  
• The role of the Self Study Coordinator
  
• Considerations for how to design your school’s self study process
• Recent changes to the NWAIS accreditation process, including use of AI in the Self Study process
• How to work with the Team Chair and Visiting Team
• How to best use the NWAIS resources available to you in the accreditation process
  

NWAIS offers two self study orientations over the course of the school year to better meet the needs of schools. The association encourages schools to have members of their teams attend more than once. The questions schools have at the beginning of the process are typically different from those closer to the visit. Although the program will be similar, the conversation may differ based on the needs of attendees. Come once or come twice! 

Please only register at this time if you submitted a breakout proposal that was accepted by the event steering committee. 

Announcing Keynote Speaker 

Back By Popular Demand!

Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath 

Neuroscientist, Educator, and Author of the Best-selling Book Stop Talking, Start Influencing: 12 Insights from Brain Science to Make Your Message Stick

And Announcing Featured Speakers

About Our Theme

TEACHING AT THE INFLECTION POINT: Designing learning for a changing world

Independent schools are at a defining moment. Rapid advances in neuroscience, evolving understandings of pedagogy, accelerating technological change, and an urgent commitment to access, equity, and inclusion are reshaping what it means to teach and learn well. This is an inflection point for our profession.

This year’s conference invites educators to examine how we design learning experiences that are responsive, research-informed, and rooted in purpose. Together, we will explore how to align what we know about how students learn with how we teach, ensuring that every learner benefits in a changing world.

We will focus on four interconnected strands:

Neuroscience → Deepening our understanding of how learning works in the brain and what that means for memory, engagement, motivation, and belonging.

Pedagogy → Evolving teaching practices to meet the needs of diverse learners and designing instruction that is inclusive, responsive, and intellectually rigorous.

Technology & AI → Examining how emerging tools shape learning environments—leveraging innovation thoughtfully so that technology supports, rather than dictates, meaningful learning.

Access, Equity & Inclusion → Ensuring that advances in research, practice, and technology expand opportunity and belonging for all students.

As we engage these strands, participants will leave with research-based insights, practical strategies, and renewed clarity about how to design learning that is both future-oriented and deeply human.

Join your NWAIS colleagues this October as we explore how to teach at this inflection point—and how to design learning that prepares students not just to navigate change, but to shape it.

Propose A Breakout Session

We invite you to help shape this year’s conference by proposing a breakout session. This is a powerful opportunity to share your expertise, innovative practices, and real-world insights with colleagues across the NWAIS community. Whether you are exploring neuroscience-informed teaching, evolving pedagogy for diverse learners, thoughtful integration of technology and AI, or advancing access, equity, and inclusion, your work can spark meaningful dialogue and practical learning. Breakout sessions are designed to be interactive, relevant, and grounded in experience—offering participants strategies they can bring back to their schools. If you are experimenting, reflecting, redesigning, or leading change at this inflection point in education, we encourage you to submit a proposal and contribute to the collective learning of our community.

Timeline

• Request For Proposals Will Open: March 2, 2026
• All Proposals Must Be Submitted By: May 1, 2026 - Deadline extended to May 15, 2026
• Applicants Will Be Notified By: June 5, 2026

Propose A Breakout Session Here

Please be prepared to complete the application in a single session. If you would like to prepare your answers in advance, you can preview the survey questions, download a .pdf of the application here.

Presenter Discount and Process

Reserving Space

If you are interested in facilitating a meet-up, affinity or discussion session, please contact Emily McGrath to sign-up.

Conference Overview  

8:00-8:30               Registration, Light Breakfast and Coffee

8:35-8:45               Opening Remarks

8:45-9:30               Keynote Address

9:30-10:00             Coffee Break and Book Signing

10:00-11:00           Session A: Featured Speakers and Breakout Sessions

11:00-12:00           Lunch        

12:15-1:15             Session B: Featured Speakers and Breakout Sessions 

1:30-2:30               Session C: Closing Speakers and Breakout Sessions 

Join Us In Person

Valuing our time together, we will be sunsetting our asynchronous participation options. This year join your colleagues in person to experience all that the Fall Educators Conference has to offer. 

Pricing and Registration

Stay tuned for information. General registration will open August 1, 2026.

Conference Policies  

Substitution, Cancellation and Switching Policy 

Substitutions may be made any time prior to the conference. Written cancellations received by October 2, 2026 are eligible for a refund after a $25 cancellation fee. Cancellations received after October 2, 2026 are ineligible for any refund. 

Clock Hours / STARS Credits

Attendees are eligible for 4 WA clock hours, STARS Credits, and/or in-service hours. There is no cost for professional credits. 

To remain in compliance with OSPI regulations, attendees are required to opt-in for clock hours prior to or on-site at the conference on Friday, October 9, 2026. 

Any opt-in submissions received after October 9, 2026 will be deemed ineligible. 

NWAIS May Help Cover Travel Costs

The NWAIS travel reimbursement policy is designed to reimburse candidate and accredited member schools for some travel costs. This policy applies to a school’s total travel expenses (not the cost of rooms and meals), no matter how many people the school sends to the workshop. If your school spends more than $150 dollars on travel for this event and is traveling a distance greater than 250 miles you will be reimbursed a percentage of your expenses. 

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

Neuroplasticity in Practice:

Turning the Science of Learning into Meaningful Classroom Practice

An NWAIS workshop series that will explore how neuroplasticity shapes the ways we design learning to deepen thinking, expand access, and support diverse learners in every classroom.

Monday, October 26, 2026 (3:30PM-5:00PM PT / 4:30PM-6:00PM MT)

Monday, November 9, 2026 (3:30PM-5:00PM PT / 4:30PM-6:00PM MT)

Monday, November 23, 2026 (3:30PM-5:00PM PT / 4:30PM-6:00PM MT)

Audience

This interactive workshop series is designed for academic leaders, learning specialists, instructional coaches, and classroom teachers.

Workshop Series Description

Every learner's brain has the capacity to grow and change. That's the promise of neuroplasticity—the brain's lifelong ability to adapt and rewire itself through experience. Understanding how that happens empowers educators to design instruction that expands opportunities for learners with varied strengths, experiences, and needs.

Across three Monday evenings, we'll explore how neuroplasticity shapes the ways we teach, connect, and design learning. Together, we'll translate neuroscience into practical strategies that deepen thinking, expand access, and support diverse learners in every classroom. 

Note: Each session builds on the last, so attending the full series will give you the most powerful results.

Format

Three 90-minute virtual sessions, two weeks apart. Each session includes presentation, breakout discussion, and applied work.

Session Descriptions

Session Outcomes:

• Explain how neuroplasticity, myelination, and neural pathways contribute to learning
• Identify classroom practices that strengthen durable neural pathways
• Apply research-informed strategies that support learners with diverse strengths and needs
   

Monday, November 9, 2026 (3:30PM-5:00PM PT / 4:30PM-6:00PM MT)

Designing Learning That Challenges and Supports Every Learner

Learning flourishes when students experience the right balance of challenge and support. Grounded in Marian Diamond's research on enriched environments and the science of neuroplasticity, this session explores how intentional instructional design creates the conditions for deeper thinking and lasting learning. You'll leave with practical strategies for designing classroom experiences that cultivate productive struggle, expand access, and help learners with varied strengths and needs thrive.

Session outcomes:

• Understand the research basis of neuroplasticity and how it is infl uenced by enriched learning environments and productive struggle
• Analyze classroom structures that create learning conditions where students are both challenged and supported
• Design learning experiences that deepen thinking and help every learner engage in meaningful learning
   

Monday, November 23, 2026 (3:30PM-5:00PM PT / 4:30PM-6:00PM MT)

Cultivating Thinking in an AI-Enabled World

As AI becomes increasingly present in education, educators have an opportunity to rethink what it means to cultivate deep learning. Grounded in the science of neuroplasticity, this session explores how brain-aligned practices like retrieval, interleaving, and metacognitive feedback strengthen neural pathways and support lasting learning. You'll leave with practical strategies that deepen thinking, expand access, and help learners with varied strengths and needs build knowledge that sticks.

Session outcomes:

• Evaluate how AI changes the learning landscape while the biology of learning remains the same
• Distinguish between practices that promote deep, transferable learning and those that reduce cognitive engagement
• Design learning experiences that preserve thinking while helping learners with varied strengths and needs build durable, transferable knowledge

About Our Facilitators from: 

Dr. Missy Widmann
Dr. Missy Widmann is a nationally recognized educational leader whose work sits at the intersection of educational neuroscience, classroom practice, and, most recently, artificial intelligence. With a doctoral degree specializing in Educational Neuroscience from Northeastern University (Seattle) and over two decades of experience in K–12 and higher education, Missy bridges research with practical application. As education evolves, so does her work. A growing curiosity about the intersection of AI, ethics, and neuroplasticity is guiding her on a new path. As Co-Founder and President of Neural Education, Missy leads professional learning experiences that empower educators to design brain-aligned classrooms grounded in curiosity, movement, emotional engagement, and ethical technology use. She also serves as a Visiting Professor at Pacific Lutheran University, where she prepares future educators to integrate neuroscience in ways that center human connection, equity, and transferable learning.

Tabitha Ellison
Tabitha Ellison is a neurodiversity-affirming advocate with 14 years of experience in education. She initially followed traditional compliance-based methods in education, employing reward systems and social-emotional learning (SEL) curricula that taught students to conform to their neurotypical peers. A transformative shift occurred when Tabitha delved into the intersection of neuroscience with teaching and learning. Tabitha serves on the executive board of Neural Education where she continues to explore the latest educational neuroscience research and delivers professional development to educators. After earning an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, Tabitha served as a Student Services Director, allowing her to bring educational neuroscience and neurodiversity-affirming principles to more environments. Now, as co-founder of ShiftEd Perspectives, she is passionate about removing barriers and developing robust support systems tailored to meet individual needs- prioritizing autonomy, self-efficacy, and inclusive environments.

Mary Snyder

Mary Snyder serves as Executive Director of Neural Education. She holds a Master's degree in Language, Reading, and Culture and partners with educators and leaders to apply educational neuroscience in ways that strengthen teaching, learning, and systems. Her work has evolved from classroom teaching to instructional coaching, district leadership, and nonprofit leadership, each step driven by a deeper curiosity about what helps learners, and the educators who support them, thrive. Today, Mary works alongside educators and leaders to translate the science of learning into practical strategies that deepen thinking, expand access, and create learning environments where every learner can thrive.

Registration 

Registration is NOW OPEN

Pricing

* Links to recordings will remain active for one month following each session.

Cancellation

Substitutions may be made any time prior to the workshop. Written cancellations received before the start of the course are eligible for a refund after a $50 cancellation fee. 

November 15, 2026

Silver Cloud Point Ruston, Tacoma, WA

Registration is Not Yet Open For Registration

Please Save The Date

Conference Overview

Join over 100 other trustees and heads of school for the premiere independent school governance event in the Northwest. This event focuses on the areas where boards struggle, giving you the information and tools to move your school forward. Sessions are led by national thought leaders and focus on trends in education, independent schools, and strategy. Heads of School find this event especially valuable when they attend with their board chair or executive committee, but trustees of all levels of experience will benefit from the broad mix of sessions and topics.

Stay Tuned for Program Information 

Full Conference Agenda - Sunday, November 15, 2026

Pricing and Registration

Please check back for registration fees and information

Program Policies

NWAIS May Help Cover Travel Costs

The NWAIS travel reimbursement policy is designed to reimburse candidate and accredited member schools for some travel costs. This policy applies to a school’s total travel expenses (not the cost of rooms and meals), no matter how many people the school sends to the workshop. If your school spends more than $150 dollars on travel for this event and is traveling a distance greater than 250 miles you will be reimbursed a percentage of your expenses. 

Cancellation Policy

Substitutions may be made any time prior to the conference. Written cancellations received by November 6, 2025 are eligible for a refund after a $50 cancellation fee. Cancellations received after the cancellation deadline are ineligible for any refund.

NWAIS Fall Heads Meeting

Join Heads of School from across the Association and share experience, best practices and explore trending themes in independent school leadership.

Registration is Not Yet Open For Registration

Please Save The Date

Tentative Schedule

November 16, 2026

8:30-12:00      Board Meeting (lunch to follow)

12:30-1:00      Registration

1:00-1:30        Welcome

1:30-5:00       Programming

5:00-6:00        Reception

6:00-8:00        Dinner

November 17, 2026

8:00-9:00           Breakfast

9:00-10:15.        NWAIS Business Meeting   

10:30-11:45       Programming  

11:45-12:00       Closing

Registration

No payment is required to NWAIS at the time of registration. Your school will be billed after the event.

Please register as soon as you know that you will be attending and no later than November 6, 2026.

Accommodations & Travel

We have reserved a limited number of rooms at a special group rate

ONLINE BOOKING LINK 

Hotel registration is not yet open

1. Click on group booking link above to generate discounted rates
2. Select arrival and departure dates and input the number of guests
3. Click "Search for Availability"
4. Click "Reserve" on your available preferred room type
5. Enter all relevant guest information: name, address, phone & email
6. Comments: provide estimated check-in/out time, note special requests, etc.
7. Click "Agree" to hotel policies
8. Click "Make Reservation" and a confirmation email will be sent automatically


PHONE RESERVATIONS: Call the hotel directly at (253) 319-8300 Ext. 1 to ask for the "NWAIS Fall Heads Meeting" discount and a guest service agent will gladly assist with booking your reservation.

RESERVATION CHANGES: Should you need to change, cancel or update a reservation, please email pointruston.reservations@silvercloud.com or call (253) 319-8300 Ext. "1" and one of our guest service agents would be pleased to assist you.

ONSITE PARKING: Overnight valet parking is offered at $36 plus tax per night for registered guests of the hotel. Event daytime parking is offered at a rate of $18 plus tax per day for event attendees. Parking rates are subject to change without notice. Onsite parking is not able to be guaranteed and is subject to availability. Hotel does not offer self parking.

RATE: Group discount is available through Wednesday, October 21, 2026. After that date, all guest rooms in the group will be released back into hotel's general inventory. Please note all guest room reservations and room types are subject to availability at the hotel.

NWAIS Heads Meeting Policies

Annual Fall and Spring Heads Meetings are open only to schools affiliated with NWAIS.
All NWAIS Accredited and Candidate member schools are billed for a portion of the Heads Conference expenses whether or not the School Head attends. Travel expenses to and from the meeting are reimbursed, added to the meeting expenses, and shared among all accredited and candidate member schools. Hotel expenses are not covered by the Travel Share Policy. If the Head of School of an Accredited and Candidate member school cannot attend, they may send a representative in their place.

Heads from Affiliate Members and Subscriber Schools will only be charged for the Heads Conference if they attend. They will be billed for a full share of the meeting expenses. They are however, responsible for their own travel expenses, and not responsible for any portion of the pooled travel expenses.

Heads Meeting Guests are asked to register in advance. Guests that are attending the program sessions will be billed after the event for the cost of the meals only. They are not responsible for the shared travel costs or program expenses. Spouses or other guests who do not attend programming will be billed after the conference and will only be charged for the meals, which they register to attend. Only one attendee from each Accredited and Candidate member school is eligible for any reimbursement of travel costs through the Travel Share program.

In the case that a guest of a Head of School is unable to attend, there is no cancellation fee until 4 days prior to the start of the meeting. After that point, all registrations are final, and guests will be billed regardless of attendance.

Travel and Other Expenses Incurred Before Event Cancellation

Typically, cancellations and postponements are very rare, however the pandemic has forced us to utilize these options more frequently. In the case that NWAIS needs to cancel, all registration fees will be refunded. NWAIS is however, unable to reimburse other expenses (such as travel) incurred by attendees prior to the event. NWAIS strongly recommends that attendees make travel arrangements that allow for some flexibility such as rescheduling, cancellation and/or future credit.   

Interested in Sponsoring the Event?

Contact Jami Sheets for more information.

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

Risk Management for Outdoor & Experiential Education: 
A School-Wide Approach

An NWAIS workshop series of four 90-minute workshops and asynchronous resources to explore how school leaders and board members can utilize practical lessons to build a culture of safety and manage risk in outdoor and experiential programs.

Monday, January 11, 2027  (9:00AM-10:30AM PT / 10:00AM-11:30AM MT )

Monday, January 25, 2027 (9:00AM-10:30AM PT /  10:00AM-11:30AM MT)

Monday, February 8, 2027 (9:00AM-10:30AM PT /  10:00AM-11:30AM MT)

Audience

This interactive workshop series is designed for Heads of School, Trustees, Risk Managers, Business Managers, and Outdoor and Experiential Program Directors and Leads. The sessions will be especially valuable for teams attending together who want shared language and a coordinated plan.

Course Description

When a school has a shared vision and clear lines of communication, risks can be identified and managed more effectively. Risk Management consultants from Experiential Consulting, LLC are offering a four-part series for NWAIS schools, building on concepts from their new book, Safety Science for Outdoor & Experiential Education. Used as an outline for the course, Safety Science, distills a century of safety management research into a coherent approach full of practical lessons learned for school leaders and board members.

Although Safety Science is focused on safety management for experiential education, one of the its central themes is building organizational culture and systems based on a school-wide approach. Safety emerges from teamwork, structures and relationships that enhance capacity and continuously improve.

Note: Each session builds on the last, so attending the full series will give you the most powerful results.

Key Outcomes

By the end of the series, participants will learn to:

• Foster a shared vision for the role of risk in your programs
• Create consistency around metrics that matter
• Build trust and teamwork around learning from incidents and near-misses
  

Program Format & Description

The course will have both synchronous and asynchronous components, including access to a rich array of virtual resources and four live workshop sessions. Program components include: 

Safety Science Resources

Participants will receive relevant chapters from their new book (included within our online learning platform) along with a workbook for them to apply the key concepts to their own school.

Online Learning Activities

Participants will have access to our online learning platform which includes podcasts, videos, quizzes and online activities to crystallize and deepen their learning about the concepts in the book.

Four 90-Minute Workshop Sessions

Participants will gather together for four sessions to apply the concepts from the book and online activities to their own workplace, and collaboratively learn alongside the Experiential Consulting facilitators.

Session 1: Monday, January 11, 2027

Foundations: Lessons Learned From the Past Century of Safety Management

Session 2: Monday, January 25, 2027 

A New View: A Positive, Capacity-based Approach to Safety Management

Session 3: Monday, February 1,  2027 

Culture: What Do We Mean By “Safety Culture” And How Do We Measure It?

Session 4: Monday, February 8,  2027 

Applications: Participants Reflect On And Share on Lessons Learned From The Class and Next Steps For Their Own Institutions

About Our Facilitators: Steve Smith, and Gates Richards, Experiential Consulting, LLC

Steve Smith (Founder, Experiential Consulting LLC) has worked in outdoor education programs for over 30 years and founded Experiential Consulting in 2008. Since then he has worked with NWAIS schools, among others, as a risk management consultant. 

His career has included leadership roles with organizations including Outward Bound and The Student Conservation Association. Steve served as the Chair of the Wilderness Risk Management Conference (WRMC) for three years (2014 - 2016). He has served on various organizations' accreditation review and risk management programs, including the Gap Year Association and The Association for Experiential Education.

He has a master's degree in teaching English, along with years of university-level teaching experience, and earned a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification from the Society for Human Resources Management, all of which help him view outdoor education through a variety of educational and administrative lenses.  

Smith is the primary author and editor of Beneficial Risks and Safety Science for Outdoor & Experiential Education as well as the host of an outdoor risk management podcast. He lives in Langley, Washington and loves exploring the Pacific Northwest and beyond.   

Gates Richards (Operations Director and Associate Consultant, Experiential Consulting, LLC) has been involved in outdoor education and EMS since the early 90's. Over the years he's worked outdoor programming throughout the Rockies, Pacific Northwest and Alaska as a field instructor and supervisor for several outdoor programs.  He's worked urban EMS in DC, WA, CO and WY.  Gates is also an active member of the Fremont County Search and Rescue team in Lander, WY. 

Gates began teaching for NOLS Wilderness Medicine in 1998 and has been awarded the Wilderness Medical Society's Warren Bowman award for contributions to wilderness medicine by a non-physician as well as the National Collegiate EMS Foundation's Distinguished Service Award. He is the former NOLS Wilderness Medicine Associate Director. 

Gates has a passion for understanding how people make decisions, and how to improve that process. Gates, his wife and their children live in Lander, WY where they can be found running, hiking, skiing and fishing. But not at the same time.

Registration 

Registration is NOW OPEN

Pricing

* Links to recordings will remain active for one month following each session.

Cancellation

Substitutions may be made any time prior to the workshop. Written cancellations received before the start of the course are eligible for a refund after a $50 cancellation fee. 

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

Leadership + Design Salt Lake City Caravan Tour

Explore the most dynamic issues for facing independent school leaders through human-centered design and a tour of Salt Lake City Schools. Join for 1, 2, or 3 days! 

Wednesday, January 20, 2027 - Student Life + Well-Being

Thursday, January 21, 2027 - Leadership Presence + Feedback

What Is the L+D Caravan Tour ?

The Leadership + Design Caravan is a mobile, hyper-local professional development experience that brings L+D’s signature mix of bold ideas, human-centered design, and optimistic futurism.

This isn't your typical professional development - it's a dynamic learning experience built for collaboration and creativity. Attend with a team from your school to maximize impact, or join à la carte for one or two days that fit your goals. Think of it as a music festival for educators - three days of connection, reflection, and growth. 

Format

Each day of the Caravan Tour will be hosted by a different local school, bringing together nearby educators and leaders to practice, prototype, reflect, and re-imagine the work of education. 

Each day focuses on a timely and essential theme:

• Student Life + Well-Being
• Leadership Presence + Feedback
• Resistance Paradox: Navigating Pushback and Resistance
   

The Daily Lineup

Each day of the caravan tour is built around a line up of impactful ideas that are relevant to the work of schools. 

Workshop Descriptions

Thursday, January 21, 2027 (9:00AM-3:00PM MT)

Leadership Presence + Feedback

Friday, January 22, 2027 (9:00AM-3:00PM MT)

Resistance Paradox: Navigating Pushback and Resistance

The core paradox: what we experience as resistance in others is often a reflection of our own fears, assumptions, and need for control. These sessions pushed into rich territory: what blocks us from seeing others as fully capable, how recognizing resistance changes the way we give feedback, and how we might gather resistance early as a gift for learning rather than an attack - how can we look at ideas, plans, the resistance itself shoulder to shoulder? Sitting with the paradox doesn't mean we need to compromise integrity. We can draw boundaries and articulate those boundaries.

Best for: All school leaders, directors and deans that feel resistance in their work.

About Our Facilitator: Isaiah Noriega

Isaiah Noriega (he/him) is a partner at Leadership + Design. He is an experienced educator, counselor, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practitioner with a passion for student well-being and community building. Isaiah recently served as Dean of Community and Well-being, Chief Diversity Officer, and Founding Director of the Evergreen Institute at Indian Creek School, where he led initiatives that center student well-being, leadership development, and belonging. With a background in clinical-community psychology, Isaiah brings expertise in mental health and organizational psychology to his work. Before joining Leadership+Design full-time, he was a Fellow and a Leader in Residence.

At the heart of Isaiah’s work is a belief in the power of people—their stories, their leadership, and their potential to thrive when truly seen and supported. A certified life coach and trained restorative practitioner, Isaiah blends empathy with strategy to help communities move forward with clarity and purpose. Outside of work, Isaiah enjoys reading, sports, and spending time with his wife.

Registration 

Registration is NOW OPEN

Pricing

  One-Day Pass: $399 per person

  Three-Day Pass: $999 per person

One-Day Pass: $499 per person

  Three-Day Pass: $1299 per person

Cancellation

Substitutions may be made any time prior to the workshop. Written cancellations received before the start of the course are eligible for a refund after a $50 cancellation fee for one-day passes and $100 for 3-day passes. 

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

Business Model, Positioning, and Reputation: A Model for School Sustainability

An NWAIS workshop series to explore what we can learn from the current state of independent school business model, and how each school can leverage its reputation and unique story to add precision to their market position.

Wednesday, February 3, 2027 (9:00AM-10:00AM PT / 10:00AM-11:00AM MT)

Wednesday, February 17, 2027 (9:00AM-10:00AM PT / 10:00AM-11:00AM MT)

Audience

This interactive workshop series is designed for Heads of School, Trustees, Business Officers, CFO’s, Operations Directors, and other school leaders. Especially valuable for teams attending together who want shared language and a coordinated plan.

Workshop Series Description

Most conversations about school sustainability start with the budget. A tuition increase here, a trimmed line item there, a hope that next year's enrollment fills the gap. But financial pressure is rarely just a financial problem. When you trace it back, the real vulnerabilities usually sit deeper: a business model too dependent on tuition, a value proposition families can't distinguish from the school down the road, and a reputation left to manage itself while leadership attends to everything else.

This three-session course is built for leaders ready to look at sustainability as a whole. Over three 60-minute sessions, participants will examine the financial and demographic forces reshaping independent schools — including the warning signs that preceded a wave of higher education closures — then turn to solutions: a disciplined, authentic positioning strategy that gives families compelling reasons to choose your school, stay, and refer others, and a practical framework for measuring and developing reputation, the one strategic asset heads and trustees can actually control. 

Sessions are spaced two weeks apart so participants can apply ideas between meetings and bring real situations back to the group.Come with your actual sustainability questions and leave with sharper indicators to watch, a clearer sense of your school's comparative advantage, and a benchmark for the reputation you want to build.

Format

Three 60-minute virtual sessions, two weeks apart. Each session includes presentation, breakout discussion, and applied work.

Session Descriptions

This is not a session about fear. It is a session about clarity and about building the institutional confidence to meet the moment.

Expected Outcomes:

• Shared language and frameworks for assessing financial and organizational health
• Ability to identify structural warning signs using recent higher ed research and translate those lessons into the independent school context
• Practical strategies for building long-term financial and organizational resilience, grounded in both data and real-world practice
   

Wednesday, February 17, 2027 (9:00AM-10:00AM PT / 10:00AM-11:00AM MT)

Leading NWAIS Schools for Comparative Advantage in a Culture of Comparison – the Path to Sustainability with Dr Stephen Holmes, Founder and Principal of The 5Rs Partnership  

Wednesday, March 3, 2027 (9:00AM-10:00AM PT / 10:00AM-11:00AM MT)

Reputation: The Ultimate Responsibility of NWAIS School Heads and Trustees with Dr Stephen Holmes, Founder and Principal of The 5Rs Partnership  

Independent Schools around the world are increasingly subject to competitive and demand-driven models. This places unprecedented requirement to jointly manage commercial (economic) and education specific matters.
 
Reputation is THE controllable strategic asset for schools to optimally manage both educational focus and market conditions.
 
While reputation is a valuable asset, richly valued and viewed positively by communities of people globally, formal reputation benchmarking and development remain often peripheral in school management, and especially so when combined with a focus on optimal sustainability for schools. This workshop will support NWAIS participants understand, measure and develop their reputation through a whole of school, 360 degree framework, that identifies 8 cluster for reputation benchmarking and management.
 
This practical, proven framework to monetize reputation in schools and apply it as an institutional “north star” will make this a ‘’hands on’’ workshop. Through a reputation lens, this workshop will allow you to self-assess your credentials, how to convey those credential perceptions to shape public opinion, and provide options for a desired future trajectory in your school.

About Our Facilitators: 

Sadie Albertyn, Senior Strategist, Mission & Data and

Sadie Albertyn is Mission & Data’s senior organizational effectiveness strategist, known for translating big ideas and complex data into strategies schools can actually act on. She began her career at Bridgewater Associates, the world’s largest institutional hedge fund, helping public pension systems make sense of sophisticated investment strategies and economic risk. Eventually, the pull of schools proved stronger than the hedge fund world, and Sadie returned to the classroom—spending more than 15 years as a teacher, department chair, dean, and division head in day and boarding schools in the U.S. and abroad. Today, she brings that rare combination of financial rigor and on-the-ground school leadership to help schools turn strategy into action and build sustainable, mission-aligned operating models. Sadie also serves on the board of trustees for a K-8 school for students with language-based learning differences and holds degrees in economics from Barnard College and the University of Massachusetts.

Dr. Stephen Holmes is Founder and Principal of The 5Rs Partnership (www.5rspartnership.com), a strategy consultancy established in 2004 with offices in Singapore and Philadelphia, and is known for helping schools build authentic positioning and reputation in the competitive, choice-based contexts where nearly all schools now operate. Over three decades, he has completed more than 600 research and strategy projects for independent, international, day, and boarding schools on every continent. He is the only full-time consultant in the world with a PhD specifically in school reputation—pioneering, award-winning research completed over 20 years ago that helped lay the intellectual foundation for how schools understand markets and reputation today. A sought-after speaker and trainer for school and university associations worldwide, Dr. Holmes has been commissioned in 2025/26 alone for major projects and conference appearances on five continents, including extensively across the United States. He holds B.Ed., M.Ed., MBA, and PhD degrees.

Registration 

Registration is NOW OPEN

Pricing

* Links to recordings will remain active for one month following each session.

Cancellation

Substitutions may be made any time prior to the workshop. Written cancellations received before the start of the course are eligible for a refund after a $50 cancellation fee. 

Make Meetings Matter 30-Minute Workshop Series | The Meeting Medic

An NWAIS workshop series of four 30-minute workshops aimed at easy-to-implement tools for leaders and facilitators to use when planning and running their meetings. These workshops are designed to address common meeting complaints and provide facilitators with easy-to-implement steps to instantly transform their meetings.

Monday, February 22, 2027 (9:00AM-9:30AM PT / 10:00AM-10:30AM MT)

Monday, March 1, 2027 (9:00AM-9:30AM PT / 10:00AM-10:30AM MT)

Monday, March 15, 2027 (9:00AM-9:30AM PT / 10:00AM-10:30AM MT)

Audience

This interactive workshop series is designed for independent school leaders and anyone who leads groups and meetings in a school context.  

Workshop Series Description

In this series of virtual workshops, attendees will explore common meeting complaints and provide facilitators with easy-to-implement steps to instantly transform their meetings. These short, punchy sessions will provide strategies, structures, and processes that will result in better outcomes for the group and the school by boosting engagement, feedback, clarity and contribution.  

Note: Each session builds on the last, so attending the full series will give you the most powerful results.

Session Descriptions

In this workshop we will:
● Determine the unique responsibilities of a facilitator
● Clarify the role of the facilitator vs. the role of the group
● Define expectations in order to help our groups leave every meeting feeling 

Monday, March 1, 2027 (9:00AM-9:30AM PT / 10:00AM-10:30AM MT)

How To Avoid Hostile Meeting Takeovers By Knowing Your Meeting Types

In this workshop we will:
● Identify various meeting types
● Discuss what to do when participants want to take the meeting in a new direction
● Emphasize the goal of a meeting and how that helps us be better leaders & facilitators

Monday, March 8, 2027 (9:00AM-9:30AM PT / 10:00AM-10:30AM MT)

Chart A Course for the Destination Using Processes

You know those meetings that are composed of random lists of information to get shared (and could have been an email)? Those can feel frustrating and draining for everyone involved. This workshop will focus on the planning stages that go into creating a successful agenda (and how we can determine success ahead of time).

Some of  the common meeting problems this workshop seeks to address are: not having a clear or purposeful agenda, agendas that are mostly updates with little intake from attendees, unsuccessful meetings that lead to discord amongst our groups.

This workshop will:
● Breakdown what makes an agenda successful
● Introduce meeting structures via scenario worksheet
● Provide a rubric for creating/checking meeting agendas

Monday, March 15, 2027 (9:00AM-9:30AM PT / 10:00AM-10:30AM MT)

This workshop is all about how to make everyone who is attending the meeting feel like it was important that they attended by emphasizing various methods of participation.

Some of  the common meeting problems this workshop seeks to address are: lack of engagement or participation during a meeting, only hearing from a few people contributing their ideas/thoughts, never getting a sense of what the group wants/needs in order to create a satisfying meeting.

In this workshop we will:
● Have structured pair conversations to surface thoughts & beliefs about participation
● Gain clarity around contribution—why we want it and how to best ask for it
● Explore and broaden our definition of meaningful engagement

Feedback From Previous Attendees:

“She was an excellent demonstrator for how to implement these tools to ensure people are engaged.  I'm looking forward to next week!”

“I love the short format because it is easier to schedule into my calendar. Creative,  direct, and helpful session.”

“Claire has done a great job of introducing actionable, easily implemented strategies for meetings - I love the bite-size nature of these meetings, as I can easily fit them in my schedule!  I have learned something from each meeting.  Thank you!”

“I especially appreciated the handouts. The pre- and post-meeting checklists are so simple, but I think they will be a game changer for me!”

“This whole experience was fantastic! I loved the brevity, the various ways to participate and connect, as well as the positive culture.  Thank you so much for offering it.”

About Our Facilitator: Claire Bolger

Registration 

Registration is NOW OPEN

Participants will register for the full series. In the case that you are not able to attend all four sessions in real time, all registrations include access to session recordings. Links to recordings will remain active for one month following each session and should not be shared. 

Pricing

* Links to recordings will remain active for one month following each session.

Cancellation

Substitutions may be made any time prior to the workshop. Written cancellations received before the start of the course are eligible for a refund after a $50 cancellation fee. 

 NWAIS Administrative Support Conference

February 25-26, 2027

Registration is Not Yet Open For Registration

Please Save The Date

You work hard all year supporting your school.  

Now your school has the opportunity to support you and your professional development.

Join your NWAIS colleagues for a two-day conference this February for administrative and executive assistants in independent schools for a two-day conference

"It's a great opportunity to recharge your batteries and reflect on ways to improve your work environment." -Past Attendee

Who Should Attend:

• Executive Assistant and Head’s Assistant
• Assistant to the Development Office, Business Office, or Division Offices  
• School Registrar
• Administrative Assistant
• Receptionist
• School Secretary
• Office Manager

"It is a wonderful way to gain perspective about the job and learn from your peers."- Past Attendee

Tentative Agenda

February 25, 2027

1:30-2:00  Registration

2:00-2:30  Welcome and Introductions

2:30-4:00  Keynote

3:45-5:00  Round Tables

5:00-7:00  Reception & Dinner

February 26, 2027

8:00-9:00 Breakfast

9:00-11:45  Programming

12:00-1:00 Lunch

1:00-2:45 Programming

2:45-3:00  Wrap up and Goodbyes

 "Since administrative assistants/receptionists/office assistants are often the only people in their schools with their specific jobs, a conference like this is a much-needed opportunity for them to connect with people who are aware of their unique issues and can provide advice, support and encouragement!" - Past Attendee

"Absolutely attend! This conference is a must for all admin and support staff". -Past Attendee

Session and Speaker Information

Check Back for Session Information

"The content is very good, but the opportunity to network with colleagues, get afresh perspective, and re-energize is priceless." - Past Attendee

Pricing and Registration

Conference Fees Will Include Programming As Well As A Reception And Dinner on February 25, and Breakfast and Lunch on February 26, 2026.

Please check back for registration fees and information

To receive the early bird or regular discount, your registration must be complete and payment must be postmarked or received by the stated deadline.

• For registrations with payment by check, payment must be postmarked by the stated deadline
• Online registrations completed by credit card must be completed by 11:59pm on the stated deadline.

"This is the one conference that caters specifically to people in our positions at independent schools. That's hard to come by!" - Past Attendee

Registration Is Not Yet Open For This Event

Please Save The Date and Check Back For More Details

"You will not regret the connections that you will make, and the content you will receive!" - Past Attendee

Location - Check Back For Location Details

"This is the perfect opportunity to connect with others in your role and to collect new ideas and resources!" - 2023 Attendee

Accommodations

You are encouraged to consider joining the many attendees who stay on-site. The residential experience maximizes the opportunity to connect with colleagues and immerse yourself in the professional development.

"Admin Assistants in schools do not have many opportunities for professional development, nor are there many people at our schools who understand the scope of our jobs. Not only does this conference allow for professional growth, but it gives us the opportunity to connect with our peers from other schools, recharge, and brain storm solutions to problems that are unique to schools." - Past Attendee

Substitutions and Cancellation

Substitutions may be made any time prior to the conference. Written cancellations received by February 11, 2026 are eligible for a refund after a $50 cancellation fee. Cancellations received after February 11, 2026 are ineligible for any refund.

NWAIS May Help Cover Travel Costs

The NWAIS travel reimbursement policy is designed to reimburse candidate and accredited member schools for some travel costs. This policy applies to a school’s total travel expenses (not the cost of rooms and meals), no matter how many people the school sends to the workshop. If your school spends more than $150 dollars on travel for this event and is traveling a distance greater than 250 miles you will be reimbursed a percentage of your expenses. 

"I think it's worth attending to be in a cohort of other people who do similar work. Often times our job is very isolating and the stress level is high so having to spend time with others who also feel the same way makes feel like our job is valuable and unique."                    - Past Attendee

NWAIS Business Officers Confernece

April 19-21, 2027 - Alderbrook Resort and Spa, Union, WA

Registration Is Not Yet Open

Save the Date 

Conference Overview

Each year NWAIS hosts a dynamic conference which is an opportunity to gather with colleagues and engage with content around school finance and operations.

Who Should Attend?

Independent School Business Managers and Their Colleagues.

Speakers and Sessions

Your planning committee is working hard to build an agenda to meet the needs of NWAIS finance professionals. Participants will engage in sessions around the economic and legal landscape, the changing role of leadership, and have opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the region.

Check back for more program information  

Conference Agenda

Monday, April 19, 2027

Tuesday, April 20, 2027

Wednesday, April 21, 2027

Check Back for More Program Details and Information on Pricing,  Deadlines and Accommodations

TO RECEIVE THE REGISTRATION DISCOUNT: Your registration must be complete by the appropriate deadline.

Online registrations paid by credit card must be completed by 11:59pm ET on the deadline date.

NWAIS Event Policies

Cancellation Policy

Substitutions may be made any time prior to the conference. Written cancellations received by April 9, 2027 are eligible for a refund after a $75 cancellation fee. Cancellations received after April 9, 2027 are ineligible for any refund.

Program Cancellation

In the unlikely event that NWAIS cancels a program for any reason, all pre-registered participants will receive notification via email. The cancellation will also be posted on the NWAIS website, and sent via listservs.

Schools Affiliated with NWAIS: Participants’ will have full refunds for all program fees applied to their NWAIS school accounts.

Schools Not Affiliated with NWAIS: Participants will receive a full refund for all program fees paid. NWAIS is unable to reimburse other expenses (such as travel) incurred by attendees prior to the event.

Travel and Other Expenses Incurred Before Event Cancellation

Typically, cancellations and postponements are very rare, however the pandemic has forced us to utilize these options more frequently. In the case that NWAIS needs to cancel, all registration fees will be refunded. NWAIS is however, unable to reimburse other expenses (such as travel) incurred by attendees prior to the event. NWAIS strongly recommends that attendees make travel arrangements such as airline tickets and hotel accommodations that allow for some flexibility such as rescheduling, cancellation and/or future credit.

NWAIS Spring Heads Meeting

May 2-4, 2027

 Alderbrook Resort and Spa (Union, WA)

 REGISTRATION IS NOT YET OPEN FOR THIS EVENT

Please Save The Date   

Conference Overview

Join Heads of School from across the Association and share experiences, build relationships and explore practices as well as trending themes in independent school leadership.

Guest Speakers 

Please check back for session and speaker information

Meeting Agenda

Sunday, May 2, 2027

2:30-3:00         Registration

3:00-5:30 Welcome and Keynote Session

6:00-8:00         Reception and Dinner to Honor Departing Heads of School 

Monday, May 3, 2027

8:00-9:00         Breakfast

9:00-10:30       Business Meeting

10:30-12:00     Workshop

12:15-1:00        Lunch - HIP Groups To Gather

1:00-5:00          Free Time

5:00-7:00          Reception and Dinner 

7:00-8:00          Optional, Fun Evening Program          

Tuesday, May 4, 2027

8:00-9:00        Breakfast with Legal Update Session

9:00-9:30 Break / Hotel Check Out  

9:30-10:30      Round Table Case Studies: When It Happens at Your School: Case Studies in High-Stakes Leadership 

10:30-12:00    Closing Keynote 

12:00              Conference Conclusion

Registration

No payment is required to NWAIS at the time of registration. Your school will be billed after the event. Please register as soon as you know that you will be attending and no later than April 19, 2027.

Accommodations

Accommodations can be made by contacting Alderbrook Lodge & Spa directly. NWAIS has contracted a special rate of $209 per night. A variety of rooms are available at the special rate, including cottages. Please make your reservation directly through Alderbrook by calling (360) 898-2145 and asking for the NWAIS Spring Heads Meeting rate.

Reservations will open January 6, 2027

Book early! Reservations must be made by April 2, 2027 to qualify for this rate. 

To reserve online, navigate to alderbrookresort.com in input group code: ______ under group code. (Please check back for reservation code)

To book online, go to Alderbrook website and click on BOOK NOW button. Then enter the Arrival and Departure dates, and under Add Special Code/Group, enter the group code above. This will populate the available room types to book. Note: If you are trying to book outside of the contracted dates for either conference, the code will not work. You will need to call Reservations directly to book a room.  The initial rate shown online is group rate plus resort fee/tax. If you would like the total with tax, click on “+ Rate Details” to see the total with taxes as well.

NWAIS Heads Meeting Policies

Annual Fall and Spring Heads Meetings are open only to schools affiliated with NWAIS.
All NWAIS Accredited and Candidate member schools are billed for a portion of the Heads Conference expenses whether or not the School Head attends. Travel expenses to and from the meeting are reimbursed, added to the meeting expenses, and shared among all accredited and candidate member schools. Hotel expenses are not covered by the Travel Share Policy. If the Head of School of an Accredited and Candidate member school cannot attend, they may send a representative in their place.

Heads from Affiliate Members and Subscriber Schools will only be charged for the Heads Conference if they attend. They will be billed for a full share of the meeting expenses. They are however, responsible for their own travel expenses, and not responsible for any portion of the pooled travel expenses.

Heads Meeting Guests are asked to register in advance. Guests that are attending the program sessions will be billed after the event for the cost of the meals only. They are not responsible for the shared travel costs or program expenses. Spouses or other guests who do not attend programming will be billed after the conference and will only be charged for the meals, which they register to attend. Only one attendee from each Accredited and Candidate member school is eligible for any reimbursement of travel costs through the Travel Share program.

In the case that a guest of a Head of School is unable to attend, there is no cancellation fee until 4 days prior to the start of the meeting. After that point, all registrations are final, and guests will be billed regardless of attendance.

Travel and Other Expenses Incurred Before Event Cancellation

Typically, cancellations and postponements are very rare, however the pandemic has forced us to utilize these options more frequently. In the case that NWAIS needs to cancel, all registration fees will be refunded. NWAIS is however, unable to reimburse other expenses (such as travel) incurred by attendees prior to the event. NWAIS strongly recommends that attendees make travel arrangements that allow for some flexibility such as rescheduling, cancellation and/or future credit.   

NWAIS Institutional Advancement Conference

May 5-7, 2027

Greater Seattle Area - Exact Location TBA

REGISTRATION IS NOT YET OPEN FOR THIS EVENT

Please Save the Date

Conference Overview

This spring, NWAIS Enrollment, Development, Communication and Marketing professionals will gather for three days of connection, learning, and renewal — and we'd love for you to join us.

Created by your peers — and returning this year at the request of member schools — this conference offers something rare: dedicated time to step back from the daily pace, reflect on the year's successes and challenges, and reconnect with colleagues who understand your work. You'll learn from national thought leaders about strengthening your school's revenue drivers and long-term sustainability, and exchange best practices with peers from across the region.

The program will feature dedicated strands for each role, along with collaborative sessions exploring how enrollment, advancement, and marketing can work in concert to advance your school's mission. Attend on your own and leave with an expanded network of trusted colleagues — or come as a cross-functional team and leave with a shared vision and a plan.

However you arrive, you'll return to campus refreshed, inspired, and full of ideas for the year ahead.

Who Should Attend?

Independent School Enrollment, Development, Communication and Marketing professionals and Their Colleagues.

Program

Over the course of three days, national thought leaders will guide participants through a series of workshops and sessions to build skills, consider national trends and apply best practices to their critical work. Attendees will also connect with colleagues from across the region to network, collaborate and build relationships that can help to sustain your work long after the conference is complete.  

Please check back for program and speaker details

Conference Agenda

Wednesday, May 5, 2027
1:00-1:30         Registration
1:30-2:30         Welcome and Community Building
2:30-3:15         Keynote
3:30-4:45         Workshops
5:00-7:00         Reception and Dinner
 
Thursday, May 6, 2027
8:00-9:00         Breakfast
9:00-9:15         Welcome 
9:15-10:30        General Session
10:45-12:00       Workshops
12:00-1:30        Lunch and Networking
2:00-3:30         General Session
3:45-5:00         Workshops
5:00-7:00         Reception & Dinner 

Friday, May 7, 2027
8:00-9:00         Breakfast
9:00-10:30        Workshops
10:45-12:00       Closing Session

Pricing and Registration

Conference Fees Will Include Programming as well as a Reception and Dinner on May. 5, Breakfast, Lunch and Reception and Dinner on May 6 and Breakfast on May 7, 2027.

REGISTRATION IS NOT YET OPEN FOR THIS EVENT

Please check back for registration rates and deadlines

* Pricing includes a full meal package for guests and children. If you would like to have guests join you and not join us for meals, there is no charge and no need to register those individuals. There are alternative meal options available on-site

To receive the early bird or regular discount, your registration must be complete and payment must be postmarked or received by the stated deadline.

• For registrations with payment by check, payment must be postmarked by the stated deadline

• Online registrations completed by credit card must be completed by 11:59pm on the stated deadline.

Accommodations

Please check back for hotel room pricing and deadlines

To Receive the Registration Discounts

Your registration must be complete by the appropriate deadline.Online registrations paid by credit card must be completed by 11:59pm on the deadline date.

Participant Cancellation Policy

Substitutions may be made any time prior to the conference. Written cancellations received by April 23, 2027 are eligible for a refund after a $75 cancellation fee. Cancellations received after April 23, 2027 are ineligible for any refund.

Program Cancellation

Typically, cancellations and postponements are very rare. Registered attendees will be notified of any program cancellation directly via email as well as through listservs and NWAIS website. In the case that NWAIS needs to cancel, all registration fees will be refunded. NWAIS is however, unable to reimburse other expenses (such as travel) incurred by attendees prior to the event. NWAIS strongly recommends that attendees make travel arrangements that allow for some flexibility such as rescheduling, cancellation and/or future credit.

June 28-30, 2027 | Alderbrook Lodge

REGISTRATION IS NOT YET OPEN FOR THIS EVENT

Please Save the Date

Conference Overview

This program is created by your peers in NWAIS leadership roles to support the work of experienced and aspiring leaders. The program includes time to reflect on the year's successes and challenges, build a new skill set and consider how it will be relevant in the coming year. Attendees have found it valuable to attend on their own or in cohorts from their school.

Who Should Attend?

Assistant Heads, Division Heads, Deans, and those in and aspiring to Educational and Administrative Leadership Roles. We are also thrilled to welcome participants from the current Emerging Leaders Institute as their closing experience for their cohort.

Program

Session facilitators will guide attendees through extended workshops which give attendees time to dig into subjects with colleagues, practice skills at a pace that matches the end of the year. This program is designed to provide time to let go of and process the year that is closing, learn new skills and strategies for school leadership as well as providing time to think abut how they might apply to the year ahead.  

Please check back for program and speaker details

"Thank you so much for such an inspiring three days! I am revved up for the new school year!"

“The networking opportunity can't be beat. It's a very different feel and pace than most other conferences.”

“Excellent accommodations, excellent food, thoroughly planned, overall outstanding”

“I think it is great to attend with a group from your school - very valuable on many levels and worth the investment.”

“You will gain so much & you will also have the chance to fully integrate it into what you do. This conference is informative but invested in personal reflection and application. It is an outstanding opportunity to interact with peers. It is a most spectacular location to retreat professionally and personally.”

“This is an amazing opportunity to connect with colleagues from your own school and people who are your peers at other neighboring schools. This is a chance to not only offer your own ideas but to walk away with a better sense of where independent schools are heading.”

 “It is an excellent opportunity to connect with colleagues, refresh after the school year, and dream big about the future of your school. I came away with both practical ideas I can implement right away, and more ambitious ideas for the leadership team at my school. I highly recommend it and hope to be back next year!”

Conference Agenda

Pre-conference - Monday, June 28, 2027

10:00-12:00    Add-on Session for Assistant or Division Heads (Includes lunch, $75)

10:00-12:00 Closing Session for Emerging Leaders

Monday, June 28, 2027

1:00-1:30         Registration

1:30-2:30         Welcome and Community Building

2:30-5:00         Workshop 1

5:00-7:00         Reception and Dinner

Tuesday, June 29, 2027

8:00-9:00          Breakfast

9:00-9:15  Welcome 

9:15-11:45        Workshop 2

11:45-2:00        Long Lunch to Enjoy Alderbrook

2:00-4:00          Workshop 3

4:00-6:00          Free Time

6:00-7:30          Dinner

7:30-9:00          Social and Free Time - Waterfront Fire Pits 

Wednesday, June 30, 2027

8:00-9:00           Breakfast

9:00-11:30         Workshop 4

11:30-12:00       Closing

Pricing and Registration

Conference Fees Will Include Programming as well as a Reception and Dinner on June 28, and Breakfast, Lunch and Reception and Dinner on June 29 and Breakfast on June 30, 2027.

REGISTRATION IS NOT YET OPEN FOR THIS EVENT

Please Save the Date

* Pricing includes a full meal package for guests and children. If you would like to have guests join you and not join us for meals, there is no charge and no need to register those individuals. There are alternative meal options available on-site

To receive the early bird or regular discount, your registration must be complete and payment must be postmarked or received by the stated deadline.

• For registrations with payment by check, payment must be postmarked by the stated deadline

• Online registrations completed by credit card must be completed by 11:59pm on the stated deadline.

Guest Meals

This year you can register guests for individual meals, rather than a full meal package. We recognize the cost of meals at Alderbrook is resource-intensive. We hope that this will allow you to customize your experience and make the most of time with your family. Pricing is outlined below. Children under 6 are welcome to join us at no charge. If your guests are not joining for meals, there is no charge and no need to register them with NWAIS.

Guest Meal Costs -

Please check back for guest meal pricing

Accommodations

Accommodations can be made by contacting Alderbrook Lodge & Spa directly. NWAIS has contracted a special rate of ____ per night.

Please make your reservation by phone directly through Alderbrook by calling (360) 898-2145 and asking for the NWAIS Leadership Institute or you can reserve your room online using the code:_____

Online Reservation Link (not active yet, please check back to reserve your room)

Book early - The room block reached capacity last year and late registrants needed to reserve space off-site. 

Reservations must be made by _____ to qualify for this rate. 

Please check back for hotel room pricing and deadlines

To Receive the Registration Discounts

Your registration must be complete by the appropriate deadline.Online registrations paid by credit card must be completed by 11:59pm on the deadline date.

Participant Cancellation Policy

Substitutions may be made any time prior to the conference. Written cancellations received by June 16, 2027 are eligible for a refund after a $75 cancellation fee. Cancellations received after June 16, 2027 are ineligible for any refund.

Program Cancellation

Typically, cancellations and postponements are very rare. Registered attendees will be notified of any program cancellation directly via email as well as through listservs and NWAIS website. In the case that NWAIS needs to cancel, all registration fees will be refunded. NWAIS is however, unable to reimburse other expenses (such as travel) incurred by attendees prior to the event. NWAIS strongly recommends that attendees make travel arrangements that allow for some flexibility such as rescheduling, cancellation and/or future credit.