Build a fiscal success framework that sets your school on a strong path and enables you to speak confidently about core principles of financial responsibility and accountability.

A Head of School bears ultimate responsibility for the institution’s financial well-being. This requires far more than reviewing reports. It demands the ability to interpret the numbers, understand how financial choices shape mission delivery, and guide your board and business office with clarity and conviction.

In this workshop, new heads develop a practical and mission-centered foundation in school finance. You’ll learn how to read your school’s financial signals, anticipate challenges, and use ISM’s proven frameworks to make wise, future-focused decisions. Through hands-on tools and real-school examples, you’ll discover how budgeting, tuition setting, salary adjustments, and long-range financial planning all work together to shape a healthy, stable school.

Whether you are new to the role or seeking renewed confidence, you’ll leave ready to communicate clearly with your board, partner effectively with your business office, and steward your school’s resources with disciplined, mission-aligned leadership.

This Summer Institute workshop is for:

  • School Heads
  • Assistant Heads
  • Aspiring Heads
  • Board Members

This workshop is for anyone leading or wanting to better understand how to lead a school.

Maximize your professional development dollars! Register by May 4, 2026, to take advantage of Early Bird pricing.

You will learn how to:

  • Develop an annual operating budget consistent with your multiyear strategic plan/strategic financial plan.
  • Focus on your school's long-term sustainability as you align your strategic plan, your strategic financial plan, and your resulting annual operating budget.
  • Recommend tuition and salary adjustments annually, in conformity with the implications of the strategic financial spreadsheet.
  • Understand audited financial reports.
  • Engage with the Head Support and Evaluation Committee.

Curious if this session is right for you? Ask us!

July 15–17, 2026

Marriott Downtown City Creek Salt Lake City, UT

Terry Moore included so much great and research-based information! As usual, ISM helps me lead better and feel confident addressing matters of great concern with my board and other constituents.”

Hadley Ruggles, Head of School
The Gladwyne Montessori School, PA