Annual Conference

The Annual Conference is a premier event designed for independent school leaders, taking place at the Chattanooga Marriott Downtown in Chattanooga, United States. The conference aims to facilitate the exchange of innovative strategies for success and provide insights into emerging trends within the educational landscape. Attendees can expect to engage in over 32 breakout sessions covering four distinct learning journeys, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of current educational challenges and opportunities.One of the key highlights of the conference is The Exchange, a 90-minute high-engagement opening experience that encourages participants to transition from reflection to action. This session is grounded in research and sector data, allowing leaders to test their ideas and challenge assumptions in real-time. The Exchange features four different pathways, each addressing timely topics relevant to the education sector. Additionally, there is a dedicated forum exclusively for heads and trustees, focusing on SAIS sector-wide data and emerging signals that are shaping the independent school landscape. Participants will have the chance to delve into critical issues such as teacher burnout and attrition by examining findings from SAIS motivation and engagement surveys and focus groups. Furthermore, the conference will explore how parental decisions and interactions influence the family journey within schools, thereby enriching the overall educational experience for students and families alike.