ISACS Professional Development

School improvement depends on teachers and leaders who are life long learners. ISACS is known for its high impact professional development events that engage the passions of everyone in the “learning community” -- faculty, administrators, heads of school, trustees, and parents. Our programs optimize adult learning by incorporating the practical realities of school life with the use of experiential, engaging formats and supportive materials. Topics are chosen after conversations with teacher-leaders to assure relevance to our member schools. ISACS has formal committees (the Professional Services Committee, the Administrative Services Committee and the Equity Committee), which meet throughout the year. Other input from the Teacher Services Committee and the many Teacher Representatives are also considered. Thus, hundreds of teacher-leaders are actively involved in shaping the dynamic ISACS professional development program. The benefit to members is an array of offerings to suit institutional or individual goals, as well as the school’s budget.

Conferences, Institutes and Workshops

Conferences and institutes emphasize the study of theory, knowledge and understandings in relation to a major topic, such as designing leading edge curriculum or preparing for leadership of a division or department. The 2007-08 offerings include the two-day Annual Conference, the Heads of School Conference, the New Teacher Institute, and the Academy for Division Heads. Often, these events convene leading national experts.

Workshops are one-day or two-day seminars for learning and practicing new skills, often ones that are called for by the emergence of new trends in schools and society. Interacting with educational leaders and networking with independent school colleagues are always highlights of ISACS workshops, where participants find inspiration from collegial discussions.

Click here for the complete line-up of conferences, institutes and workshops and to register. With the exception of the Annual Conference, all events take place in Chicago. Please view the schedule for exact location.

Learning Bridge

Learning Bridge audio seminars are the most accessible and affordable form of professional development. Participants take advantage of the wisdom of experts from the convenience of their office or classroom. Some schools transform the seminar into a town hall meeting by gathering groups of teachers, administrators, trustees or parents. The 2005-06 line-up features 18 seminars. Registered schools receive program outlines, notes and call-in instructions. Learning Bridge fee is $100 per school for up to 2 phone lines, additional phone lines are $10 each. Internet access is highly recommended but not necessary. It allows participants the opportunity to view speaker presentations and post questions on-line in real time. Recorded sessions can be replayed for future trainings. Enjoy early bird and package discounts. Click here for the complete line-up of Learning Bridge audio seminars and to register.

Consultations with ISACS Staff

The ISACS President and the Director of Professional Development are available to confer with teachers, administrators and Heads of School on a variety of issues relating to professional development, school leadership, and school governance. Please contact info@isacs.org for information about these services to members.

Workshop FAQ's (pdf)