Steady Leadership in Turbulent Times: 7 Ways Boards Can Navigate the Present Moment
Like all contemporary organizations, independent and international schools are facing seemingly unprecedented economic, political, and social uncertainties. Instead of viewing these challenges solely as obstacles, effective boards can use this moment to strengthen their institutions through principled leadership that emphasizes seven concurrent sets of actions.
1. Anchor in Mission and Values
During periods of uncertainty, the urge to react swiftly to every external pressure can exacerbate turbulence and lead schools away from their core mission. Boards must anchor themselves in their institution's fundamental mission and values, using them as both a compass and a stabilizer. Clearly articulating what the school stands for—academic excellence, character development, innovative pedagogy—should guide every major decision.
2. Practice Financial Stewardship
Economic volatility necessitates balancing prudent management with ongoing investment in the school’s future. Today’s chaos will give way to tomorrow’s normal, so effective boards cultivate financial resilience through careful operational efficiency, while ensuring that cost-cutting does not compromise the school's core educational mission. Regular stress-testing of budgets equips boards for various scenarios without panic.
3. Navigate Social and Political Pressures Thoughtfully
Independent schools often face competing pressures from diverse community segments—segments that may have previously coexisted more or less peacefully, but now seem ready to attack each other at the slightest provocation. The key is to maintain institutional neutrality while fostering respectful dialogue. Boards should resist taking partisan positions, focusing instead on how their educational mission prepares students for thoughtful civic engagement. Address difficult topics through an educational lens that emphasizes critical thinking and informed citizenship.
4. Communicate Clearly and Consistently
Clear communication becomes essential during uncertain times. Board chairs and heads of school should establish regular communication with stakeholders, sharing challenges and opportunities while maintaining appropriate confidentiality. Transparency about decision-making processes builds trust, even when not everyone agrees with the outcomes.
5. Support Leadership While Maintaining Boundaries
Uncertainty places acute stress on school leaders who are implementing board decisions. Now more than ever, boards must balance oversight with avoiding micromanagement. It is crucial that boards do not unnecessarily add to the burdens of administrators. Regular check-ins between board chairs and heads of school, along with clear expectations and responsiveness when management needs support, ensure alignment while maintaining healthy governance boundaries.
6. Think Long-term Despite Short-term Pressures
The most effective boards resist the short-term thinking that uncertainty creates. They should continue investing in facilities, technology, and professional development. Decisions need to be made based on educational research rather than popular trends. It's important to maintain admission and financial aid practices that support the mission over revenue maximization. Remember that while treading water may seem like the best strategy, it ultimately sets the school back in the long run.
7. Build Adaptive Capacity
Rather than trying to anticipate every potential scenario, successful boards build institutional adaptive capacity through strong leadership pipelines, financial flexibility, a culture of continuous improvement, and broad educational relationships. Schools with exceptional adaptive capacity view uncertainty as a context to navigate rather than a threat to fear.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Today’s uncertainty offers independent schools an opportunity to demonstrate their value and strengthen their position. Boards that approach challenges with clear thinking, principled decision-making, and unwavering commitment to education will emerge stronger. By maintaining a focus on their mission, practicing sound governance, and supporting educational leaders, independent school boards provide the steady leadership their communities need during turbulent times.