In the 2023 NAIS Hot Topics report, heads of schools reported that of the challenges they currently face, “responding to conflict in and about independent school” was the second most relevant issue (following finding and retaining qualified staff). How can you and your Board support your HOS in responding to conflict within your school community? A good starting place is establishing or enhancing your school’s conflict resolution policies and practices.

In this session, we will consider conflict within all constituencies, including with the head of school, and how school leaders and board members can respond professionally, ethically, and constructively. We will specifically discuss the role of the board and where and when it is appropriate for board members to engage in conflict resolution. Participants will leave with a framework to implement at their school to develop a mission-aligned set of conflict resolution policies and practices.

Presented by Brooke Carroll, Principal Consultant and Coach, Acies Strategies and Bridget Johnson, Bridget Johnson Coaching & Consulting