NAIS Member Voices focuses on the hard-working individuals that make up the independent school community. Each episode will feature a discussion with a different staff member at an NAIS member school about his or her role, challenges, successes, inspiration sources, and more. For more information about NAIS or any of the resources discussed, visit www.nais.org or contact us at membership@nais.org.
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In this final episode of NAIS Member Voices, we take a moment to reflect on the conversations, stories, and perspectives that have shaped the podcast over the past 10 years. From educators and leaders across independent schools, Member Voices has been about learning from one another and sharing what inspires us, challenges us, and moves our work forward. Moving forward, we’ll continue bringing…
Tom Woelper, Head of School at Cheshire Academy, shares how he approaches leadership as a balance of vision, accountability, and community energy—drawing on the three meanings of a conductor to guide a 230‑year‑old institution. He reflects on navigating financial pressures, fostering belonging in a diverse boarding‑day community, and shaping personalized pathways that help students thrive…
Christopher Kramaric, Chief Advancement Officer at Church Farm School (PA), shares how his school advances its mission of providing a college preparatory education to all boys through innovative fundraising and community engagement. He discusses the school’s unique history as a working farm, the evolution of its advancement strategy, and creative approaches to building partnerships with…
This month, guest host Link Nicoll speaks with Greg Schneider, head of Belmont Hill School (MA). Greg discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of running a school for boys – including the importance of mentorship, the nuances of masculinity, and insights on approaching character development and mental health. Schneider also highlights the significance of faculty recruitment and the role…
The Conversation: AI in the Classroom by audio podcast by NAIS
Ryann Fapohunda, Director of DEIB and Director of Specialists at Beauvoir, The National Cathedral Elementary School (DC), reflects on her journey from AmeriCorps literacy tutor to school leader and the values that guide her work. She discusses fostering belonging in early childhood education, supporting faculty through inclusive leadership, and navigating the dual roles of equity practitioner and…
This month we bring you another episode from our sister NAIS podcast, New View EDU. This episode from Season 8 features a conversation with NAIS President Debra Wilson and Jalaj Desai, Head of School at Saddle River Day School (NJ). Debra and Jalaj discuss how schools are responding to rapid technological change in different ways, and how Jalaj is integrating AI across all aspects of education at…
Jessica Bremmer, English department chair and upper school English teacher at Westridge School (CA), shares how her background in English and passion for storytelling shape her leadership and commitment to amplifying student voices. She discusses creating spaces where students feel heard and empowered, supporting faculty in times of change, and fostering trust across the community. Jessica also…
Spencer Burrows, Equity and Civic Engagement Coordinator at Pacific Ridge School (CA), shares how he’s making civics real for students through hands-on experiences like internships, advocacy trips, and direct engagement with local government. He discusses the creation of the Civic Leadership Academy, the importance of focusing on local issues to foster meaningful participation, and the development…
Michelle Hirschy, director of wellness, and Lucas Jacob, director of writing, communication, and media literacy at La Jolla Country Day School (CA), explore the challenges and opportunities of guiding students through today’s complex digital world. From the constant stream of online images and videos of war and terrorism to the rapid rise of AI tools and political extremism on social media,…
