Professional Learning
We provide the building blocks for professional learning at all levels of your organization. VAIS Professional Development is strengthened and informed by the Standards for Professional Learning and pedagogical best practices derived from up-to-date neuro-educational research. We are committed to supporting high-quality professional learning to sustain and advance equitable educational practices that support student learning. Whether this is one of our annual conferences or a customized learning experience, VAIS brings the best to our member schools and educators.
In-Person Programs
VAIS Annual Conference
Join educators and leaders from across the region for our largest event of the year. This year’s keynote explores how expectations, feedback, relationships, and purposeful challenge shape students’ sense of belonging every day.
Dr. Pascal Losambe
Heads of School Conference
Join Heads of School for an exclusive strategic experience. This year features the Independent School DEFCON Scale, empowering leaders to audit institutional health using indicators like enrollment, mission delivery, and faculty retention.
Damian Kavanaugh & Ross Peters
Safe & Healthy Schools Conference
Designed for School Counselors, Safety Professionals, Nurses, Health Educators, and Athletics Educators. Gather to discuss critical updates and strategies for maintaining student well-being and campus security.
Business & Advancement Institute
Uncover the critical challenges facing today’s independent schools and discover how leaders are iterating the model effectively. Ideal for CFOs, Business Office, HR, Admissions, Communications, and Development Professionals.
Peter Baron, Founder, MoonshotOS
Online Programs
Both/And Series: Rethinking Educational Polarities
Step away from false choices and explore the productive tension between competing educational priorities. Open to all educators, with registration available by school.
VAIS Technology Week
Features daily doses of learning, including an engaging keynote, practical sessions for you and your team, and fast-paced concurrent sessions with industry experts.
Mark Orchison, Founder & CEO, 9ine
Heads & Trustees Week
Tailored specifically for Heads of School and Trustees. This session explores essential mindsets and skill sets that help educators become stronger collaborators and contributors.
Jennifer Abrams
