As education continually evolves, the demand for innovative solutions and strategic insights has never been more vital. The ATLIS Leadership Institute (ALI) stands at the forefront of this mission, championing the development of leadership capabilities within the independent school community. A cornerstone of ALI’s efforts is its research and development projects, also known as research and design projects. These initiatives offer a transformative platform for ALI cohort teams to deeply engage with their goals, tackle leadership challenges, and produce valuable resources that benefit the broader community.
Essence of Research and Development Projects
At the heart of these projects lies a simple yet profound methodology: Start with a compelling problem, undertake research, and culminate with actionable insights. This approach ensures each project is not only relevant to the team’s specific goals but also provides practical tools, suggested practices, or thought leadership.
Here are some standout projects from 2023 that exemplify the diversity and depth of ALI’s research and development initiatives. Access the accompanying files and resources at theATLIS.org/rdprojects.
CAPITAL PURCHASING FRAMEWORK
BY JULIE BENNER, STEVE FRANTZ, CÉCILE LELIÈVRE, DOMINIC SALERNO, AND DAVID WILSON
One of the critical aspects of managing an educational institution is navigating the process of changing or updating systems. This task requires a strategic approach to ensure successful implementation and seamless integration into the school’s ecosystem. The Capital Purchasing Framework project provides a comprehensive guide designed for decision-makers involved in acquiring big-ticket items for their schools. It encompasses a step-by-step framework that aids in planning, decision-making, and executing capital purchases so every investment is thoughtful and impactful.
QUICK START GUIDE TO BUILDING A CUSTOMER-FOCUSED IT SERVICE DESK
BY CHRISTOPHER ESPOSITO, TERRENCE WILLIAMS, WILLIAM MONDESI, AND DEANTE JONES
Research shows that most people’s interaction with IT will come via their school’s support desk, making service desk staff the face of the IT department. Poor customer service can negatively impact the entire department’s reputation. IT, especially the service desk, is fundamentally a customer service job. This guide offers tips to help make your school’s IT service desk be more customer-focused while maintaining technical excellence.
TECH LEADERSHIP ROLES: MAKING FIRST IMPRESSIONS
BY MIKE SIEPMANN, RAFAEL CORDERO, ANDREW SILVERMAN, ALEK DUBA, AND DEVAREAUX BROWN
This guide assists school leaders in evaluating their data collection processes and storage as they connect with prospective families. It emphasizes measuring and ensuring student belonging, starting with critical details like name pronunciation. Addressing issues such as misgendering, the guide showcases how the technology department can manage identity, diversity, and equity data.
By identifying causes of data issues, resolving them, and preventing occurrences through system reviews, training, and audits, tech leadership in DEI work is framed as a pivotal skill set for fostering community and belonging in independent schools.
AI POLICY AND GUIDANCE
BY MARK SNOW, AJANI OTIENO-RUDEK, JULIA SNOWFROCK, AND GREGORY STILL
This ALI project evolved into a comprehensive AI policy and guidance document for Forsyth Country Day School in Lewisville, North Carolina. Adapted and expanded (with permission) from a document from Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School in Rabun Gap, Georgia, this policy aims to help schools harness the benefits of AI while understanding and mitigating potential risks. It represents an initial step in promoting the safe, effective, and responsible use of AI in education. As the AI landscape in education moves forward, this guidance will adapt to new technologies, emerging use cases, and a deeper understanding of AI’s impact.
HOLISTIC APPROACH TO ePORTFOLIOS
BY NYLY SY, AFANDIE WINTER, AMANDA LAWRIE-HALL, ERICK RAMIREZ, ERIKA SEARS, AND KAREN BOYKINS
ePortfolios have emerged as powerful tools for students to showcase their personal narratives and experiences. Beyond their academic applications, ePortfolios can play a pivotal role in promoting DEIB within the school environment. This project explores how ePortfolios can be leveraged to cultivate essential skills such as self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision-making, relationship skills, and social awareness. It provides a holistic approach to integrating ePortfolios into the curriculum, making them a vehicle for personal growth and community building.
FLIPPED CLASSROOM
BY ANDREW FARMAN, ANDREW KAMINSKI, DAWN TRUJILLO, ETHAN GREENBERG, AND JUSTIN KARELS
The concept of the flipped classroom has gained significant traction in recent years, offering a paradigm shift in traditional teaching methodologies. This project delves into the intricacies of what a flipped classroom entails, why it is beneficial, and how it can be effectively implemented. It also addresses potential pitfalls and provides strategies to overcome common challenges. By flipping the traditional classroom model, educators can create a more engaging and student-centered learning experience.
Impact of ALI Research and Development Projects
ALI’s research and development projects are more than just academic exercises; they are practical, actionable, and designed to address real-world challenges faced by independent schools. We hope you find them helpful.
To learn more about ALI and its transformative programs, visit theATLIS.org/ali.
