As enrollment leaders in independent schools, our roles extend far beyond the admissions process. We are uniquely positioned to bring insights and perspectives to our school communities and leadership teams. By understanding and harnessing our broader potential, we can drive meaningful change and contribute to the success and vibrancy of our respective schools. Here are three ways enrollment leaders can lead with impact:
1. Illuminating the Values of Families
Enrollment leaders are the keepers of our families' stories. Through countless conversations, interviews, and interactions, we gain a deep understanding of what our prospective families value, the aspirations they hold for their children, and the qualities that draw them to our schools.
This insight is more than anecdotal—it is strategic. By sharing these stories and values with our leadership teams, we can shape initiatives that align with the heart of our community. For example, if families consistently express a desire for more experiential learning opportunities, this information can inform strategic planning or partnerships with development to fund related programs. Collaborate with your director of development to help ensure these familial priorities are aligned with institutional fundraising efforts, while partnering with the head of school ensures these initiatives reflect the school’s broader vision. Enrollment leaders serve as a bridge between family priorities and institutional goals, ensuring alignment that strengthens the school community.
2. Driving Academic and Co-Curricular Innovation
We have unique access to understanding why families and students choose our schools. This can be a catalyst for innovation in academic and co-curricular programming. For instance, let’s say your school has seen a surge in applications from students and families passionate about environmental sustainability. As an enrollment leader, you can bring this trend to the forefront by partnering with your dean of academics (or equivalent) and the head of school. Together, you can advocate for the development of sustainability-focused electives, outdoor education programs, or partnerships with local environmental organizations.
This collaboration ensures that programming decisions are informed by enrollment trends while also reflecting the school’s academic mission and leadership priorities. This isn’t just about attracting new families; it’s about delivering on your school’s promise to provide relevant, engaging, and future-oriented learning experiences. By leveraging enrollment trends and fostering collaboration, we help our schools stay responsive and competitive in a dynamic educational landscape.
3. Building Trust as a Foundation for Growth
Enrollment leaders are often among the first school representatives that families interact with. Over time, these interactions build a foundation of trust. Families come to see us not only as advocates for the school but also as allies in their children’s education journey.
This trust is a powerful tool. Families are often willing to share honest feedback—both positive and constructive—with enrollment leaders. By actively listening and relaying this feedback to leadership, we can address concerns, identify opportunities for improvement, and reinforce the bonds of community. Trust is the cornerstone of growth, and enrollment leaders are uniquely positioned to cultivate it.
Be the Difference
Enrollment leaders, the work we do is transformative. We are not just admissions officers; we are strategic leaders, storytellers, and community builders. Our insights, advocacy, and relationships have the power to shape our schools in profound ways.
So, let’s embrace our roles as change makers. Let’s bring the values, voices, and visions of our families into every room where decisions are made. Let’s partner with our colleagues to innovate, inspire, and elevate our schools. By doing so, we’re not only shaping the futures of our students but also ensuring the enduring success of our institutions.
The power of enrollment leadership is immense. Use it to make a difference—one family, one program, one strategic decision at a time.
Davion Fleming
Director of Admissions
Lick-Wilmerding High School