Designing and Measuring the Experience of School

In this session, we will invite participants to rethink admissions as a learning experience via a new parent toolkit that we have developed, which helps families go through a series of structured activities and ultimately choose a school for their child.

In this session, we will open up a conversation about how we measure the experience of students, parents, and employees in our school. We will introduce concepts such as how we gather meaningful feedback and come to terms with the fact that sometimes school can be a bad experience. We will also share how schools are seeing feedback in a new light when we think about the felt experience of people in our community.

School Branding - Crafting Your Distinct Identity

With LIZ ALLEN
10:30AM-12:00PM

This interactive workshop focuses on crafting your school brand. We will begin by exploring the fundamental role of purpose in your school's identity, understanding how your school's purpose is not just a statement but the soul of your institution. It defines your identity, guides decision-making, creates differentiation, establishes an emotional connection, attracts alignment, and allows for adaptation to change.

We will then delve into the importance of a brand promise. Your brand promise communicates the unique benefits, experiences, and outcomes that students, families, and faculty can expect from their association with your school. It is a tangible commitment to stakeholders, guiding your messaging across all communication channels.

Workshop Activities:

• Understanding Your School's Identity Through Purpose
• Crafting a Compelling Brand Promise

Participants will work in small groups to share ideas and challenges.

KEY TAKEAWAYs:

A well-defined school purpose and brand promise are crucial for establishing a strong brand identity. Consistency between your brand promise and reality builds trust and credibility. Fulfilling your brand promise fosters satisfaction and loyalty among stakeholders.

By the end of this workshop, you will have a clearer understanding of your school's purpose and how to articulate it through a compelling brand promise and tagline. You will leave with actionable insights and ideas to enhance your school's brand identity.

Building a Strong Culture of Philanthropy

With YVETTE CAMPBELL
1:00-2:00PM

Delve into effective strategies for fostering a vibrant culture of philanthropy within independent schools. A well-developed culture of giving not only bolsters financial stability but also enriches the sense of community and commitment among all stakeholders. Whether you’re an administrator, part of a small team or a larger advancement office or a board member, this session aims to inspire and equip you with innovative approaches to enhance fundraising efforts and invigorate your institution’s philanthropic spirit.

KEY TAKEAWAYs:

1. Understanding Philanthropy: Gain insight into the core principles of philanthropy and how to align your efforts with your school’s mission and values. Learn why this alignment is crucial for building lasting support.
2. Building a Case for Support: Discover how to craft compelling narratives that resonate with potential donors. Learn to highlight your institution’s unique aspects and its impact on students and the community, making a persuasive case for support.
3. Engaging Stakeholders: Explore strategies to involve students, parents, alumni, and faculty in the culture of giving. Find ways to create meaningful opportunities for involvement and foster long-term relationships with your institution.
4. Developing a Strategic Plan: Understand the components of an effective philanthropic strategy, including goal-setting, donor segmentation, and communication tactics. Develop a plan that aligns with your institution’s needs and objectives.
5. Implementing Best Practices: Review successful case studies and best practices from other independent schools. Identify actionable strategies that can be tailored to fit your institution’s unique context and challenges.

The session will feature interactive discussions, real-life case studies, and practical exercises designed to help you create a clear, actionable plan for nurturing a philanthropic culture at your school. Whether you’re looking to refine existing practices or develop new initiatives, this session will provide valuable insights and tools to elevate your institution’s fundraising efforts.

Visit the FLC24 Resource Library to access any handouts and resources speakers have shared for their session(s). Please check back for late additions.