Here’s to the Trailblazers

“Because we’ve always done it that way.” This is one of my least favorite statements to hear in the workplace. Today, for independent schools, it could be the most harmful.

Since 2009, schools have had the unique opportunity to take a good hard look at their business practices, compelled by the worst economic recession of our times. In the intervening years, I have heard countless business officers call the downturn an excuse to make the tough decisions they’ve long avoided, such as increasing the number of students per classroom, right-sizing FTEs and eliminating programs that do not have enough students to fund them. But according to NBOA’s Business Office Survey, only a small percentage of schools actually implement the changes that could significantly impact their financial health for the better. Anecdotal research supports this data. At the end of a presentation I often give, I ask business officers and other school leaders whether their school is more financially sustainable today than it was in 2010. The response is a resounding no.

What keeps schools from acting? One obstacle is that we are in the ultimate people business. It takes talented, committed and hard-working people to deliver our schools’ missions — and to create future generations of talented, committed and hard-working people. A second obstacle is the simple fact that change rarely comes easily. As NBOA’s friend and colleague Grant Lichtman put it so aptly, “Change isn’t hard; it’s uncomfortable.”

Today, I fear we may be facing a new crisis. As a longstanding NBOA member recently wrote on NBOA Connect, “In an uncertain national climate, the value of caring and inclusive independent schools is even more important than ever.” I agree wholeheartedly. In the early weeks of 2017, people across the political spectrum witnessed a devaluing of truth, education and whole classes of individuals. I propose that independent schools see these challenges as a mandate to get and keep our financial houses in order. We must be financially strong to fully harness our independence and innovation not only to reinforce (or re-invent) what is already great about our schools, but also to ensure our roles as incubators of knowledge, service and appreciation of all cultures and nationalities. Let’s unleash independent schools’ best potential at a time when our country may very well need it desperately.

I tip my hat to the trailblazers who share their stories in this issue of Net Assets — who are breaking what needs to be broken at their schools, and are serving as catalysts for change among the independent school community overall.

Follow NBOA President and CEO Jeff Shields @shieldsNBOA.

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